Victory for Ireland despite late surge from Welsh

Wales 22 Ireland 30

Ireland made an impressive start to the RBS 6 Nations this afternoon with a win over Wales, as the rivals produced a gripping tournament opener at the Millennium Stadium.

Tries from Simon Zebo, Cian Healy and Brian O’Driscoll helped the Irish establish a 30-3 lead by the 43rd minute and the battered Grand Slam champions looked finished.

But instead of collapsing they fought back, with Alex Cuthbert, Leigh Halfpenny and Craig Mitchell crossing in a half dominated by Wales and notable for some outstanding Irish defence.