Scrum of fans line out to welcome champions home

After obliterating Scottish opposition by a combined 113 points to 13, the men’s and women’s rugby teams have arrived back on home soil as Six Nations champions.

Having captained his side to back-to-back titles, it was only fitting that Paul O’Connell led the men’s team out to meet the fans after they touched down in Dublin Airport yesterday afternoon.

The Irish rugby team are greeting their fans @DublinAirport #SixNations #Rugby pic.twitter.com/U2ooxdXV1n

— Dublin Airport (@DublinAirport) March 22, 2015

Hundreds of people had gathered to cheer the players whose 40-10 victory over the Scots 24 hours earlier gave them just enough points to pip England and Wales to the title.

The drama of the final day — it was a nail-biting three-hours after the match before fans and players alike knew England had not done enough — meant yesterday’s welcome was all the more heartfelt.

This @Inphosports image perfectly captures the atmosphere @DublinAirport for the #SixNations homecoming. pic.twitter.com/QlrtZkAs3g

— Dublin Airport (@DublinAirport) March 22, 2015

Appreciating what the victory meant to the fans, the players spent a long time signing autographs and jerseys and posing for selfies, even letting some have a hold of the replica trophy which will be replaced by the real one when it arrives from Twickenham later this week.

Last night, after meeting the fans, the players had the chance for another celebration, this time with family and friends at an event in a Dublin hotel before a number of them prepare today to head back to join up with their provincial teammates.

You'd like a #DoubleChampions banner? Here you go #ShouldertoShoulder pic.twitter.com/Jd6kFaox8d

— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) March 22, 2015

Yesterday, the women’s side, led by captain Niamh Briggs, posted a massive 73-3 victory, including 11 tries, over their Scottish counterparts at Scotland’s Broadwood Stadium. That was more than enough to wipe out the 27-point winning margin required to beat the French to the Six Nations title — they were 37-3 in the lead by half-time.

Ireland also won the RBS Women’s Six Nations this weekend. 

Another homecoming, another trophy #DoubleChampions #ShouldertoShoulder pic.twitter.com/iEigMx8Cxz

— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) March 22, 2015

After initial celebrations in Scotland, the championship-winning side flew back into Dublin last night.

'Welcome Home!' @IrishRugby women arrive @DublinAirport to a great reception after their heroics today! pic.twitter.com/7o04YmBBYy

— Inpho Photography (@Inphosports) March 22, 2015

Read more of today’s news here