Six Nations silverware at stake in Dublin – Ireland v Scotland talking points

Ireland hope to snatch Guinness Six Nations glory when they complete their campaign at home to Scotland.

Victory over the Scots would move Andy Farrell’s men top of the championship standings, but their title hopes would still rely on England upsetting Grand Slam-chasing France in the evening kick-off in Paris.

Here, the PA news agency picks out some of the main talking points ahead of Saturday’s finale in Dublin.

Beat Scotland at the Aviva Stadium and Ireland will clinch their sixth Triple Crown of the Six Nations era – and first secured on home soil since 2004.

Yet Farrell’s side have designs on a far bigger prize. They go into the weekend two points behind table-topping France and with the title tantalisingly close.

Another French victory would crush that dream, but a major favour from Eddie Jones’ side at Stade de France could see Ireland pinch the championship crown.

Given they have a superior points difference to Les Bleus, there are also scenarios where a draw – or even a defeat with two losing bonus points – would be sufficient for Ireland to pip their rivals to top spot.

Seven years ago Ireland approached round five of the tournament in similar circumstances. Back then they defeated the Scots 40-10 at Murrayfield before being forced to anxiously await the outcome of an England-France clash.

The English required a 26-point winning margin to wrestle away the title but fell agonisingly short at Twickenham, prompting wild Irish celebrations in Edinburgh.

Ireland lock Iain Henderson, who is set to make his maiden start of this year’s tournament this weekend, played on that occasion and recalled a day of “nervous excitement”.

Wales were also involved in the captivating title race of 2015, which ultimately saw the top