IRELAND eventually roared to the Grand Slam after 14-man England threatened a fightback but ended with just 13 players.
The Red Rose restored some of the pride shattered in last week’s thumping by France after Freddie Steward’s red card on the stroke of half-time.
ReutersJohnny Sexton celebrates Dan Sheehan’s crucial try[/caption]
GettyRobbie Henshaw crosses for the try that broke England’s second-half resistance[/caption]
But Johnny Sexton, 37 broke the Six Nations points record on 566 as the Irish deservedly pipped France to the Six Nations crown.
With England trailing 10-6 at the break, Owen Farrell’s third penalty cut the deficit to a point as they got on top.
But it was inevitable Ireland would find gaps, with Robbie Henshaw and first-half scorer Dan Sheehan crossing for converted tries.
Yet, just as Ireland seemed finally in the zone, Jamie George bundled over for a consolation score.
That left England eight points down but Jack Willis was yellow-carded.
And the 13 men saw Rob Herring streak over to confirm a huge Irish party – underlining why Andy Farrell’s men are ranked No1 in the world
PAIreland celebrate Dan Sheehan notching the only try of the first half[/caption]
PASheehan bursts over as Ireland edged towards the crown[/caption]
GettyEngland’s Anthony Watson is tackled by Jamison Gibson-Park[/caption]