6:2 bench-split backfire not a factor in loss, says Farrell

Ireland boss Andy Farrell didn't feel that his 6:2 bench split selection call was a factor in their narrow Six Nations loss to England.

The head coach was magnanimous in defeat but felt it was indiscipline and a disjointed defence that cost his team.

Ireland’s first Six Nations reverse since 2022 ended their back-to-back Grand Slam hopes but still leaves them well set to retain their title when Scotland visit Dublin next weekend.

Four Jack Crowley penalties had Ireland 12-8 up at the break and a brace of James Lowe tries in the second half almost got the visitors, who had beaten England in their last four ties, over the line at a boisterous Twickenham Stadium.

But stung from two weeks of criticism from fans and media, Steve Borthwick’s side dug out a superb performance, with tries from Ollie Lawrence, George Furbank and man of the match Ben Earl, and Marcus Smith’s dropgoal securing a well-deserved victory for the hosts.

England had 60% territory and 53% possession, carried 786 metres to Ireland’s 449 and made eight line-breaks versus just two from the visitors.

Ireland had used a 6:2 bench split against France and Wales, and once again Farrell decided to use Conor Murray and Ciarán Frawley as the back cover against England.

However, he was forced into an early change when Calvin Nash (above) collided awkwardly with Tommy Freeman prior to Lawrence's fourth-minute try, and his replacement, Frawley, failed his head injury assessment after tackling Freeman just before Furbank’s touchdown.

Incidentally, Frawley’s tackle forced Freeman’s foot into touch but it was not spotted by any of the officials.

Farrell (below) said both injured players were "okay, within themselves, but going through the protocols" after the game.

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