It was a weekend to celebrate for Irish rugby fans as both the men’s and women’s teams put on superb displays to win their respective tournaments – and both made history in the process.
Both teams had to reach difficult targets that their rivals had set with excellent displays of their own – and both passed those tests with flying colours.
The men’s team started the day in second place in the 6 Nations table. They were one of three teams (along with England and Wales) all on equal points, with England top due to a slightly better point difference.
Wales had a terrific game in the first match of the day. They beat Italy 61-20 which meant Ireland would need to beat Scotland by at least 21 points, and preferably more to as they needed to keep England at bay.
Ireland played brilliantly and won their match 40-10, which left England needing to beat France by 26 points. England had the most difficult game of the three title chasers. They played well but fell short winning 55-35.
It meant that Ireland had made history. It was the first time they had successfully defended the title for 66 years.
The women’s team was not to be outdone. They finished top of their table – level on points with France. However, their points difference was vastly superior.
This was thanks to a magnificent display in their final game against Scotland.
They needed to win the match by 27 points to top the table. At half time they were already 34 points ahead, and by the end of the match they had won 73-3.
The women’s team also made history as the secured their biggest ever win on they marched to the title.
Both teams received great receptions as they returned to Ireland and showed off their trophies.
The Irish men’s rugby team arrive back in Ireland
The Irish women’s rugby team arrive back in Ireland
