Ireland player ratings: Sheehan & Aki among stand-outs

Ireland are the Grand Slam champions but they were made to work hard for their 29-16 win over England.

It was nervy for long spells but their quality eventually told as they outscored their opponents four tries to one.

Here's how we rated the players.

15 Hugo Keenan - 6

Was removed at half-time after the challenge from Freddie Steward was red-carded for. On a nervy day the full-back made a couple of uncharacteristic errors but crucially England couldn't take advantage.

14 Mack Hansen - 7

Not as explosive as in the previous two games but the winger still got through an almighty amount of work. A vital component of Ireland's Grand Slam.

13 Robbie Henshaw - 7

Marked his recall with a crucial try and made all nine attempted tackles. Minus Garry Ringrose, the Athlone man's experience in the heat of battle was just what was required.

12 Bundee Aki - 8

A tough no-nonsense outing from the Connacht player. He carried 15 times for 78 metres and was a constant go-to man in midfield. Nailed all seven of his tackles too and picked a lovely pass for Henshaw's try.

11 James Lowe - 7

Responsible for four turnovers and four handling errors overall as Ireland struggled to get to grips early on. He made 344 metres with his trusty left boot that got his team out of the danger zones.

10 Johnny Sexton - 7

A mixed bag from the captain, who kicked his way into the record books as his first penalty made him the competition's top scorer. His cross kick was the catalyst for Ireland's second-half surge but lost the ball in contact too easily. Hard to imagine the team without him.

9 Jamison Gibson-Park - 7

Not alone in making some hurried decisions but Ireland still play with a more consistent tempo with the Kiwi on the field.

1 Andrew Porter -