Ireland continued their dominance over Scotland with a commanding 32-18 victory at Murrayfield, maintaining their unbeaten run in this year’s Six Nations. A powerful performance, led by the impressive Sam Prendergast, ensured the reigning champions remain on course for a third successive title.
Hopes were high among the home fans as the legendary Chris Hoy, battling a terminal illness, delivered the match ball to a rousing ovation. The atmosphere was electric, and Scotland showed glimpses of brilliance, but they struggled to match Ireland’s physicality and precision.
A major setback came early for the hosts when fly-half Finn Russell and winger Darcy Graham suffered a clash of heads, forcing both off the field. Although Russell passed his head injury assessment, the decision was made not to return him to play. Scotland’s back line had its moments, but their pack was unable to handle the relentless Irish pressure, particularly in the scrums.
Ireland wasted no time asserting themselves. Within five minutes, Prendergast spotted Calvin Nash in space, setting up the first try. The fly-half then added the conversion, giving the visitors an early lead. Twice in the opening quarter, Ireland were held up over the line, with Rory Darge making a crucial defensive effort.
The Scottish scrum struggled throughout, and Ireland’s dominance was further underlined when captain Caelan Doris powered over for a second try after a strong run by Jamison Gibson-Park. A penalty from Prendergast stretched the lead to 17-0, leaving Scotland with an uphill battle.
Just before halftime, a moment of brilliance from Duhan van der Merwe provided Scotland with a much-needed boost. Back from his stint in the sin bin for blocking Nash, the winger finished off a well-worked move started by Stafford McDowall, closing the gap to 17-5 at the break.
Early in the second half, Scotland showed signs of resurgence. Huw Jones and Blair Kinghorn combined well to carve through Ireland’s defense, and after a controversial non-call for a possible deliberate knock-on by Robbie Henshaw, Scotland settled for a penalty, reducing the deficit to six points. However, Ireland quickly regained control.
James Lowe’s quick footwork saw him evade Kinghorn to score Ireland’s third try, and the bonus-point was secured when Jack Conan crashed over following excellent play by Gibson-Park. Ben White managed a late consolation try for Scotland, converted by Kinghorn, but by then, the result was beyond doubt.
Ireland’s interim coach praised the squad’s work ethic and focus, emphasizing the need to maintain momentum heading into their next clash against Wales. With two bonus-point victories already secured, their pursuit of an unprecedented third straight title remains firmly on track.
