Ireland 19 – 9 Wales

It was certainly a close call for the Irish faithful, after an amazing start you could be forgiven for thinking that Rory Bests early try was to be the start of something special from Ireland. Those thoughts were soon banished after Wales absorbed some early pressure and fought back by kicking penalties, racking up the scoreboard to 9-5 in favour of Wales.

Thankfully the lead wasn't for long as O'Driscoll gathered a floating pass and worked his magic up the short side to stretch for a try. O'Gara followed up by converting and excellent kick to bring the score 9-12 to Ireland.

Wales continued to knock at the door but Ireland's defence held strong in the second half, eventually it paid off after D'arcy got within inches of the try line, the move was finished of by O'Gara who stretched for the line in a similar fashion to O'Driscoll in the first half. It was breathless and bloody game which proved to be a stern test for Ireland, no doubt things will continue to get harder in the coming weeks.

Next week Ireland play France at Croke park and the week after we welcome England to Croke Park in a game which promises to be historic.

 The game in pictures…