We’ll always remember the one to forget

THIS is not the way it was meant to be.

When Vincent Clerc spoiled the party on the very first outing in Croke Park three years ago France had dominated the fixture for some time and a win for them was not entirely unexpected. With England looming large on the horizon within a fortnight there were more nourishing and historically significant fish to fry and Ireland duly delivered.

Saturday’s defeat against Scotland with President McAleese poised with silverware in the Hogan Stand has left a very hollow feeling. Unfortunately, in terms of redemption, the door is now closed. Croke Park may never see an Irish rugby side in action in a Six Nations championship again. For a trophy that for some reason has become undervalued in certain quarters, failing to secure another Triple Crown has left a deep sense of disappointment and frustration that can only now be arrested over the next few months by a positive showing from Munster and Leinster in Europe.