Six Nations: Ireland bounce back to crush Welsh dragon

Wales 6, Ireland 36 (full-time)

Ireland bounced back from the misery of Murrayfield to outscore Wales by an impressive 30 points in Cardiff today.

Man-of-the-match David Humphreys was in sparkling form and established Ireland's supremacy with a faultless display of kicking, where he bagged five penalties and two conversions.

At half-time Ireland led by 12 points, having twice been denied tries as TV replays proved the attempts by Mick Galwey and Shane Horgan to be inconclusive.

Welsh fly-half Stephen Jones reduced Ireland's lead with his second successful penalty kick early in the second-half but resolute defending by the Irish ensured the home side never looked like breaching the visitor's line.

Inspired by captain Keith Wood and the talismanic figure of 35-year-old Galwey, it was only a question of time before Ireland crossed the try line to preserve their excellent away record in Wales (Ireland haven't lost on Welsh soil since 1983).

Three late tries by Denis Hickie, centre Brian O'Driscoll and Shane Horgan put the icing on the cake for the Irish, who now face England in Dublin with some renewed confidence.

Wales

Jones 2 pens

Ireland

Humphreys 5 pens, 2 cons

Tries: Hickie, O'Driscoll, Horgan

O'Gara con