Second consecutive title for Ireland.
Winner of Scotland this Saturday (17-13), during the last day of the 2024 Six Nations Tournament, the XV du Trèfle won its 24th coronation, the 6th since the transition to six teams in 2000. The end of the Tournament was not, however, brilliant for the Irish, who had to fight to overcome the valiant Scots this Saturday, a week after losing to the wire in England (23-22).
The pressure from the Chardon XV made Andy Farrell's men suffer, who had great difficulty finding openings.
However, they took advantage of an error from the Scottish hooker who, by sending a touch too long 5 meters from his in-goal, allowed Dan Sheehan to recover the ball and score his fifth try in this Six Nations Tournament 2024 (13th).
With eight tries scored in total in the competition, the Leinster player becomes the most prolific hooker in the history of the Tournament.
The release of Andrew Porter
Despite this gift, the Irish were scared.
Constantly under pressure, often clumsy, like Jack Crowley who sent two kicks too long and largely missed a penalty in the 36th minute, despite being in front of the posts.
At the start of the second half, Tadhg Furlong thought he would give his team a little breathing room (47th), but his try was ultimately canceled for a forward at least to flatten.
Despite a clear domination, and endless sequences in the last five meters, the Irish broke their teeth against the solid Scottish defense.
By stifling its opponent, the XV of Clover however protected itself from a Scottish try, and therefore ensured victory.
The release finally arrived in the 65th minute, when Andrew Porter scored the second try of the match taking advantage of the yellow card sent to Ewan Ashman following numerous Scottish fouls.
Mass was then said, and the title was definitively won.
Huw Jones' converted try at the end of the match (77th) changed nothing.
A great revenge after the World Cup
Already ultra-dominant last year, with a Grand Slam achieved which suffered no dispute, Ireland continues to dominate European rugby.
Above all, she is recovering in the most beautiful way after losing in the quarter-finals of the 2023 World Cup against New Zealand (24-28).
A very hard blow for the Irish, who also lost Jonathan Sexton, their playing master, who retired from international duty.
But Andy Farrell has resources, ideas, and good players.
Propelled as a starting flyhalf, Jack Crowley performed during this 2024 Six Nations Tournament, with an interesting skill against the poles and an impressive ease in his team's oiled passing game.
Jostled by England last week, the Irish however did not win a second consecutive Grand Slam.
They will no doubt be very satisfied with this well-deserved title.