In a dramatic Guinness Six Nations showdown in Cardiff, Ireland narrowly defeated Wales to claim the Triple Crown and maintain their Grand Slam aspirations. Despite being heavy underdogs with a 14-match losing streak, Wales delivered a spirited performance that pushed the defending champions to the brink.
Ireland’s victory was secured through tries from Jack Conan and Jamie Osborne, along with 17 points from Sam Prendergast’s boot. However, the visitors struggled with discipline, particularly after Garry Ringrose received a red card in the 35th minute, forcing Ireland to play 20 minutes with 14 men.
Wales started brightly, with Taulupe Faletua, Tom Rogers, and Ellis Mee leading the charge. Still, Ireland struck first when Conan capitalized on a turnover and stretched over the line, followed by a Prendergast conversion. Ireland’s early momentum was halted by handling errors and penalties, allowing Wales to gain ground. Gareth Anscombe’s penalties and Jac Morgan’s powerful try propelled Wales to a 13-10 halftime lead.
The home crowd erupted when Rogers scored Wales’ second try early in the second half, but Ireland responded as Prendergast’s penalty trimmed the deficit. With Bundee Aki returning after the red card’s 20-minute expiry, Ireland capitalized on a 50:22 kick by Prendergast, leading to Osborne’s unconverted try that leveled the score.
As tensions mounted, Ireland regained the lead through Prendergast’s precise penalties, including a long-range effort from over 50 meters. Wales pressed hard in the final minutes, but a knock-on by Mee just inches from the try line sealed Ireland’s narrow escape.
With the hard-fought 20-17 victory, Ireland’s Grand Slam hopes remain intact as they prepare to face France in Dublin in two weeks.