Six Nations: Woeful Welsh display gives Ireland lift

Ireland capitalised on a woeful Welsh display to extend their amazing unbeaten record in Cardiff and secure maximum points before tackling Six Nations champions-elect England at Lansdowne Road next Saturday.

Wales were appalling, producing their worst display since Graeme Henry took charge and more than three years ago to blow their chance of finishing second in the championship.

Irish fly-half David Humphreys ran the show, kicking five first-half penalties to justify his recall at Ronan O’Gara’s expense.

Boasting a 15-6 interval lead, Ireland, unbeaten on Welsh soil since 1983, moved into overdrive to inflict on Wales one of the most dismal days in their recent international rugby history.

The rampant Irish scored three tries during the closing 10 minutes - Denis Hickie, Brian O’Driscoll and Shane Horgan all capitalising on the pathetic Welsh defence - to give the visitors an all-time record win over Wales.

It was a far cry from events in Edinburgh just three weeks ago when Scotland destroyed Irish grand slam hopes with a 32-10 triumph at Murrayfield.