England’s Six Nations campaign began with promise but ended in disappointment as Ireland staged a dominant second-half comeback to win 27-22 in Dublin. Despite a strong opening, England faded in the later stages, allowing the reigning champions to seize control and claim a vital bonus-point victory.
The first half belonged to England, who played with intensity and purpose. The Curry twins set the tone with relentless pressure on Ireland’s young fly-half, Sam Prendergast, disrupting his kicking game and forcing errors. England’s attacking intent was rewarded when Ollie Lawrence burst through the midfield, Marcus Smith spread the ball wide, and Henry Slade delivered a precise left-foot grubber for Cadan Murley to score on his debut.
Ireland struggled to convert opportunities, twice failing to capitalize on penalty advantages deep in England’s 22. Ronan Kelleher crossed the line, only for the try to be disallowed due to an infringement at the preceding ruck. England’s defense held firm, frustrating the hosts, and Smith extended the lead to 10-5 with a well-taken penalty before halftime.
After the break, Ireland found their rhythm and turned the game on its head. England’s failure to secure a high ball put them under sustained pressure, and Bundee Aki took full advantage, powering through Smith and Alex Mitchell to score. Prendergast then slotted a long-range penalty to give Ireland their first lead of the match.
With England’s discipline beginning to falter, Ireland took full control. A series of penalties gifted them territory, and Tadhg Beirne forced his way over the line in the 64th minute. Moments later, Dan Sheehan stretched the lead further with another well-worked try, exposing England’s fading resilience.
England responded late, with Tom Curry and Tommy Freeman crossing for tries to secure a losing bonus point, but the damage had already been done. The defeat highlighted familiar issues: last-quarter fatigue, lack of depth in key positions, and an inability to close out tight matches.
Ireland now turn their focus to a challenging trip to Scotland, while England face a crucial home clash against France. If they hope to remain in contention, they must quickly find a way to sustain their performances for the full 80 minutes.
