Captain Caelan Doris conceded Ireland were guilty of “forcing things” in an attempt to put pressure on their Guinness Six Nations title rivals during an unconvincing 22-17 victory against Italy.
Simon Easterby’s side temporarily moved top of the championship table thanks to a stuttering bonus-point success in Rome before England’s dominant 68-14 victory against Wales ended their pursuit of a third consecutive championship crown.
Ireland, whose Grand Slam dream was crushed by last weekend’s 42-27 Dublin drubbing at home to France, required a resounding win at a sold-out Stadio Olimpico to remain in realistic contention for the ultimate prize.
Ireland take the victory in Rome
Read more on breakingnews.ie