Evergreen Sexton equals al-time record as Ireland outlast Scotland in cracker

Ireland remained on course for a Six Nations Grand Slam after overcoming stiff Scottish resistance to win 22-7 at Murrayfield on Sunday.

Johnny Sexton's seven points with the boot equalled Ronan O'Gara's record as the all-time top scorer in the Six Nations, while Mack Hansen, James Lowe and Jack Conan scored tries as Scotland were denied a first Triple Crown since 1990.

Ireland still have work to do just to win the title, though, as the failure to land a bonus point for the first time in this year's Championship means they need to beat England in Dublin on Saturday to ensure they cannot be caught by France.

Andy Farrell had the luxury of welcoming back a host of star names to a side that has not lost since the first match of an ultimately victorious tour to New Zealand last July.

Tadhg Furlong made his first appearance of the Championship, while captain Sexton and Garry Ringrose, on his 50th cap, were back from injuries that kept them out of victory away to Italy three weeks ago.

Scotland were also confident after running France close in Paris and recording victories over England and Wales, but the hosts nearly had a suicidal start.

A wayward lineout on their own line allowed Dan Sheehan to power over for what seemed to be the game's first try.

RECAP | Scotland v Ireland

However, Scotland escaped on a technicality as they had not used the same ball for the restart, meaning the lineout was retaken.

Ireland were soon camped back on the Scottish line but only came away with three points as Sexton kicked over a penalty from close range.

Scotland were clinical with their first period of possession in Irish territory as swift hands from Sione Tuipulotu fed Huw Jones to run in his fourth try of the Championships under the posts and Finn