Ireland player ratings: Few crumbs of comfort 

A case of déjà vu all over again as, for the fourth time in succession, Ireland were completely dominated in their loss to England. Andy Farrell’s side had no answer to England’s physicality and defensive line speed. The score line of 18-7 flattered Ireland who had the majority of the possession and territory but could do little with ball in hand.

While the Autumn Nations Cup provides Ireland with a chance to blood new players and combinations there were few positives to see on the Twickenham pitch and fans will be left wondering how Ireland can cope against teams they can’t physically overpower. We are still waiting to see Farrell impose his own mark on the teams playing style and the fact England haven’t changed their style significantly in the last two years raises questions if this coaching ticket can find a way to out think or out play opponents larger than them.