Criticism of Conor Murray box-kick simply reductionist

Ireland may have been outplayed for large parts of their heartbreaking Six Nations defeat at Twickenham, but they will still rue opportunities to control the game at vital moments.

The hosts undoubtedly produced their best performance of the Steve Borthwick reign to derail Ireland's attempt at back-to-back Grand Slams, while also enhancing the buy-in within their group.

It should also serve to getting their supporters back onside.

Despite England’s psychological desperation to prove themselves to the increasing number of doubters, the visitors somehow managed to a lead to the dressing room at half-time.

England threw everything they had at them and yet it was Ireland with their noses in front.

James Lowe’s try shortly after the resumption seemed to lift the pressure, but England’s physical dominance led to Ireland’s lack of control once more.

Irish exits weren’t as comfortable as they’d like and while kick exits always invite pressure, Borthwick’s side clearly had their homework done in making life difficult, leading to a quick response through George Furbank.

Not everything went Ireland’s way - losing two outside backs was always going to hinder their cohesion - but England had disrupted them in their own right regardless.

The men in green managed to keep throwing punches, but it felt like a boxer that was counter-punching from the ropes before landing a punishing blow themselves through a second Lowe try.

It was backs to the walls stuff after that at times and once more England managed to get at Ireland while the latter were in possession.

Ollie Chessum turned over the lineout, leading to a Ben Earl line break and the pressure penalty that saw Peter O’Mahony sent to the side line for 10 minutes.

While these feel like Irish