Ireland thrash England to settle down the rivalry – Six Nations
The Grand Slam hype was smacked down by Ireland and England had a fewer reasons to cheer about. England’s dreams for claiming the Grand Slam title for the second time was thrashed by the Irish side by a horrific 24-8 defeat.
As far as England-Ireland rivalry is concerned, this year has been so far on Ireland’s side and produced results against England. Even in the current cricket World Cup, where England had beaten tough sides like New Zealand and Sri Lanka, they got thumped
by Ireland. The major upsets have been notified as an Irish retaliation for the preseason statements by a few English officials and critics.
It’s a known fact that the British media usually exaggerates a bit when it comes to England’s sports. Even though rugby is a sport that originated from England, the success rate is not as impressive as compared to the teams that joined the world of rugby
later. There are reasons why New Zealand, South Africa, France and Australia are the most favourite teams for the upcoming World Cup. England’s performance in Six Nations could not help them much in earning that international respect. They still happen to
be one of the hated sides.
The reasons for this are clear; it is neither their game play nor their talent, it’s their media and a few old school officials, who can’t leave any opportunity to say a few harsh words for the opponents. They are the ones who keep on reviving the medieval
rivalry and keep on refreshing the memories of Norman invasion through their comments and statements.
Last weekend, when Ireland waked in the field they had the same motivation as the Anglo Norman barons from 1200, who resisted the control of Kingship on their land and fought King John’s control over Ireland. There were times in match where revenge and ambition
both were visible in Irish players, who were done with the talk and on with the action.
Jonathan Sexton led the team with a superb performance, contributing the highest on the scoreboard. Sexton converted one of the try and slotted four tremendous penalties through the uprights. The two tries from Ireland’s side were scored by Brian O’Driscoll
and Tomy Bowe.
Ireland took an early psychological advantage over England, when they pushed back the first attack from England’s forwards and ran over their defense. From scrum to line outs and penalties, Ireland had already taken over in the first half leaving England
with 17-3 horrific amazement.
One of the commentators humorously commented on the Irish invasion to England’s territory as one-way traffic. It was clear that England had lost control in the first half, but in second half they tried to make their way back in the game with a 52nd minute
try. Though, it was not a happening half, but Ireland somehow managed to keep England at distance. Ireland also scored just one try in second half in 46th minute by O’Driscoll. The scores concluded as 24-8 and England had to walk off the field with remorse.
English side has newly found its lost pride back and were starting to gel up together to form a dangerous side, before Ireland broke their momentum. This match was an important win for England, as it would have meant the undisputed champions of Northern
Hemisphere. Even though, England has won the Six Nations title, but this defeat has left its scars on the trophy.
With fresh and highly talented players like Toby Flood, Chris Ashton and Steve Thompson England has its chances to make a mark in World Cup, while Ireland will be savouring the joy of this victory till the real challenge in World Cup shows up. Six Nations
have been a learning experience for all teams, especially France and Wales, where both of them had won a few matches and made a few noticeable blunders.
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