Irish rugby’s men disappoint as women show them how it’s done

Inexperienced Irish side show lack of a cutting edge in a demoralising loss to Scotland.

Irish coach Declan Kidney made the bold call earlier in the week to give Ulster’s Paddy Jackson the nod over the experienced Ronan O’Gara to direct an attack that already had numerous changes due to injury.

In a dominant half Kidney’s decision felt justified, however just like in the previous game Ireland’s offence stalled in the red zone mainly due to errant throwing from hooker Rory Best.

Despite dominating possession and territory Ireland only went in with a 3-0 lead at half-time after Paddy Jackson converted on his second penalty of the day.

Ireland seemed to come out determined in the second half, immediately making inroads in Scottish territory resulting in a clinically taken try by winger Craig Gilroy.

Despite a great start to the half Gilroy’s points proved to be Ireland’s final score of the game as Paddy Jackson failed to convert.

With a chance to redeem himself a couple of minutes later Jackson yet again missed a penalty meaning he was one from four for the day.

Following this Scotland finally made inroads into Irish territory resulting in their first points courtesy of a couple of quick penalties by Greig Laidlaw.

Jackson yet again displayed his inexperience with a penalty as he looked to achieve maximum yardage but failed to find touch. This resulted in another Scotland penalty as Laidlaw gave them their first lead of the game.

The latest mistake from Jackson resulted in Kidney springing O’Gara from the bench, however he spectacularly left his mark on the game after a speculative cross-field kick resulted in yet another Scottish penalty.

Going a perfect four from four Greig Laidlaw steered his side home to a 12-8 win in a game in which Scotland were distinctly.

For the second weekend of rugby in a row it was Ireland women’s side that were making the positive headlines as they took home their first ever Triple Crown.

With a comprehensive 30-3 win the Triple Crown and qualification for next year’s World Cup was achieved in style as Ireland remain on track for a first Grand slam, yet again winger Alison Miller was the star performer adding to her try total for the tournament.