Ben Earl on a high as ‘worst England team ever’ beat Ireland in thriller

Steve Borthwick played down an exchange of words with Ireland boss Andy Farrell shortly before half-time.

THRILLER: Ben Earl runs at the Ireland defence. Pic: Mike Egerton/PA

Ben Earl hit back at England’s critics after they produced their best display since the 2019 World Cup by dispatching Ireland 23-22 at Twickenham.

Marcus Smith’s match-winning drop goal in the last act of a spellbinding match denied Ireland the chance to complete back-to-back Grand Slams and ensured the Guinness Six Nations title will be decided on the final weekend.