Shot of self-belief will stand to Ireland

Ireland sealed the deal to claim only our second Six Nations title in dramatic fashion at Paris on Saturday night but the long-term benefits we will derive from winning a tight game will stand to this side.

Having lost to New Zealand in the autumn and to England last month in games that were in the balance up to the final whistle it was important to get the experience of either coming from behind or protecting a lead against quality opposition.

Former Armagh All-Ireland winner Enda McNulty works with this Irish team on a part-time basis and he concentrates on all areas of mental preparation, which is crucial for high performance teams and individuals. The self-belief gained from winning away in Paris against a French team that improved massively will stand to this team as they will look to build on the tangible success the Six nations trophy provides. I mention tangible because I believe real progress has been made.