Johnson: Ireland can strike gold with oldies

A POTENT mix of experience and desperation from Ireland’s old guard will make Declan Kidney’s side genuine World Cup contenders, according to England boss Martin Johnson.

Johnson’s England travelled to Dublin on Saturday knowing victory would bring them their first Grand Slam in eight years and leave them perfectly placed to lead the northern hemisphere challenge in New Zealand later this year.

But they left with their tails between their legs as Brian O’Driscoll led Ireland to a 24-8 victory that was far more comprehensive than the scoreline might suggest.