Ireland Fight Back To Beat Resurgent Wales And Keep Six Nations Grand Slam Hopes Alive

Watch Wales Vs Ireland highlights as Ireland overcame a spirited Welsh side in Cardiff to secure a third Six Nations win.

Ireland secured the Triple Crown and look set for a record third straight Six Nations title – but they didn’t have it easy on Saturday.

The reigning champions were made to work for it as Wales looked a different side to the one which had lost its opening two matches comfortably.

A red card for Irish centre Gary Ringrose shortly before half time for a high tackle on Wales’ Ben Thomas tipped the scales in favour of the hosts.

But despite trailing 18-10 at one stage, Ireland battled back to secure a 27-18 victory.

Tries from Jack Conan and Jamie Osborne were cancelled out by Wales’ Jac Morgan and Tom Rogers.

But it was the boot of Irish fly-half Sam Prendergast which proved the difference.

The Leinster man kicked 17 points to drag his side over the line despite a phenomenal effort from Wales.

Interim boss Matt Sherratt appears to have transformed this Welsh team within a fortnight, giving fans at the Principality Stadium something the cheers for for the first time in a while.

Watch: Wales Vs Ireland Highlights

They may not have got the result they wanted, but Wales showed they will be a far tougher opponent for their remaining fixtures.

Wales failed to gain a losing bonus point, however. They therefore remain rooted to the bottom of the Six Nation table, with just one point.

Ireland, meanwhile, kept up their 100% record and are still leading the standings.

As the only unbeaten side, they are still in contention for the Grand Slam.

Standing in their way over the final two rounds are and Italy, with the French heading to Dublin in two weeks for a probably title-decider.

Wales, meanwhile, head up to Edinburgh to play Scotland at Murrayfield, before finishing their campaign at home to England on the final day.