Ireland ground out a 27-17 victory over Wales in Dublin to keep their Six Nations and Triple Crown hopes alive, securing a valuable bonus point. Jacob Stockdale opened the scoring with his 20th international try inside six minutes and Jack Crowley added a second-half try before the break to build Ireland’s early lead. Wales hit back right before halftime when prop Rhys Carre powered away for a 30-metre score, leaving the teams 12-10 at the interval.
Early in the second half Jack Conan crashed over to extend Ireland’s advantage. Wales refused to fold: James Botham finished strongly in the 63rd minute and Dan Edwards kept Wales in touch with his goal-kicking. Ireland clinched the bonus point when full-back Jamie Osborne finished a slick team move on 68 minutes for his third try in as many games, and Crowley slotting a late penalty ensured the margin finished at 27-17.
Scoring summary
– Ireland: Tries — Stockdale (6), Crowley (37), Conan (44), Osborne (68). Crowley added the conversions and a late penalty.
– Wales: Tries — Rhys Carre (40), James Botham (63). Dan Edwards kicked their conversions and an earlier penalty.
The result extends Wales’ Six Nations winless run to 15 games, but coach Steve Tandy and several players highlighted clear signs of improvement and growing confidence within the squad. For Ireland, a third straight win moves them into second place in the table and keeps a mathematical chance of the title alive, with a Triple Crown decider against Scotland to come next Saturday.
Reactions
– Ireland head coach Andy Farrell said it was a proper Test match and praised Wales for staying competitive, while also commending his players’ character in a hard-fought win.
– Ireland captain Caelan Doris described the performance as scrappy and admitted there is plenty to work on ahead of Scotland.
– Wales prop Rhys Carre highlighted the team’s progress and fighting spirit.
– Wales captain Dewi Lake expressed disappointment at the defeat but pointed to significant development in the group over recent weeks.
What’s next
– Saturday: France at Scotland (Murrayfield), followed by England v Italy (Rome).
– Ireland finish their campaign at home to Scotland on March 14.
– Wales host Italy at the Principality Stadium, with France v England later the same day.