Six Nations: Ireland 26-5 Scotland - Irish clinch Triple Crown and keep title race alive

Ireland controlled the majority of the contest against a struggling Scotland

Ireland's pack starred as they beat Scotland to clinch their first Triple Crown in four years and ensure the race for the Six Nations title will go down to the tournament's final game.

The victory over Scotland came courtesy of tries from Dan Sheehan, Cian Healy, Josh van der Flier and Conor Murray.

Pierre Schoeman registered Scotland's only score shortly before half-time.

The defeat ends another disappointing tournament for Gregor Townsend's side - one that started so brightly with a brilliant win over England - in which they are set for a fourth-placed finish unless England suffer a heavy defeat against France.

Now trailing Ireland by three points in the standings, France know any manner of victory over the English will secure a first Grand Slam since 2010.

Farrell wins first trophy as head coach

The Triple Crown, Ireland's sixth since the turn of the century, is Farrell's first piece of silverware since being elevated from assistant coach to the top job after the 2019 World Cup.

During his time at the helm he has overseen the reinvention of Ireland's attack, which although initially a bumpy transition has blossomed into a recognisable and fruitful system.

While not always as free-flowing, it has along with an aggressive defensive structure yielded 12 wins from Ireland's past 13 games.

Against Scotland it was for large parts an imperfect display as they struggled to find the edge and stretch the visiting defence with any regularity.

There was however still enough quick ball and aggressive carrying to see the hosts take control of the game in the opening half.

After conceding an incredible six penalties at Twickenham last week eyes were on the Irish scrum, which held up well barring one Scottish win late in the half.

Front rows Sheehan and Healy provided the finishing touches to the two opening tries, with the hooker peeling away from a rolling maul for the opener after 17 minutes.

Healy burrowed over for the second 10 minutes later after strong carries from Sheehan and Jack Conan.

While Ireland enjoyed the better of the opening half, the last 10 minutes belonged to Scotland and provided them with a route back into the contest as Schoeman profited from some excellent counter-rucking to put his side on the board.

More to follow.