Ireland 27-22 England

Ireland v England Match Reports

Ireland got their Six Nations title defence off to a winning start with a 27-22 bonus-point victory over England in Dublin. Cadan Murley scored the opening try of the match on his England debut. Ireland created plenty of chances, but didn't get on the scoreboard until the 35th minute when Jamison Gibson-Park swerved his way through. England led 10-5 at the break after Marcus Smith slotted a penalty at the very end of the half. Bundee Aki was first to score in the second half when he dived into the corner to draw Ireland level. Sam Prendergast then put the home side into the lead with a succesful penalty kick in the 56th minute. Ireland began to dominate the final quarter as James Lowe helped create tries for both Tadhg Beirne and Dan Sheehan to extend their lead. Tom Curry and Tommy Freeman scored late tries for England to secure a losing bonus point as consolation. A selection of match reports is listed below:

• Six Nations Guide: Ireland begin Six Nations defence with bonus-point win over England
• BBC: Holders Ireland seal bonus-point win over England
• Daily Mail: Hosts secure dominant bonus-point win to kick-start their Six Nations title defence
• Sky Sports: Defending Six Nations champions fight back from half-time deficit to secure opening-round win
• Irish Independent: Ireland clear first hurdle in Six Nations title defence as second-half blitz sees off England
• England Rugby: England beaten by Ireland in first round of 2025 Guinness Six Nations