Ireland demolish sloppy England in record 42-21 victory

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Rugby Union - Six Nations Championship - England v Ireland - Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, Britain - February 21, 2026 Ireland's Jamison Gibson-Park in action with England's Alex Coles Action Images via Reuters/Peter Cziborra
Rugby Union - Six Nations Championship - England v Ireland - Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, Britain - February 21, 2026 England's Tommy Freeman in action with Ireland's Ciaran Frawley Action Images via Reuters/Peter Cziborra

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LONDON, Feb 21 : Ireland blew England away in a record-breaking 42-21 victory at Twickenham on Saturday to keep alive their slim Six Nations title hopes and end those of their below-par hosts.

Ireland opened up a 22-0 lead after just over 30 minutes, taking full advantage of England's sloppy defending as Jamison Gibson-Park, impressive winger Rob Baloucoune and early replacement Tommy O'Brien went over.

England got on the board just before the break through Fraser Dingwall's try, but any hopes of an unlikely comeback were snuffed out by Dan Sheehan's try three minutes after the restart.

With the contest seemingly settled, England captain Maro Itoje was withdrawn early on his 100th cap before both sides traded tries in a ragged end to the game.

Ireland's win - their biggest ever in England - put them on nine points from three games, one behind leaders France who host Italy on Sunday. England are fourth on five points.

Source: Reuters

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