Andy Farrell dismisses talk of 'anti-climax' after defeat to England

Ireland head coach Andy Farrell has rejected the notion that holding onto the Guinness Six Nations title might now seem underwhelming after his side's highly anticipated bid for consecutive Grand Slams was thwarted.

Despite being on track to make history with back-to-back tournament clean sweeps, the reigning champions suffered a heartbreaking defeat to England at Twickenham in the dying moments of Saturday's match.

Securing at least a draw against Scotland in the final round would likely ensure Ireland retain their championship title. Even in the event of a loss, England would need a bonus-point victory against France to snatch the title.

“Anti-climax? How many times have we won the Six Nations?, said Farrell following the Twickenham game.

“Everyone would love to be in our position. We’ve got to make sure we’re loving that challenge as well.

“I’ve absolutely no doubt that they (Ireland supporters) 100 per cent will be on song. Paddy’s weekend again, with the chance of winning a Six Nations.

“It could have been a little bit better but Grand Slams are unbelievably hard to come by. Six Nations are hard enough, as everyone would vouch for.”

A double from James Lowe and four successful penalty kicks from Jack Crowley kept Ireland in the game but a last gasp drop goal from Marcus Smith steered England to a one point victory.

“I thought we could have kicked longer and out,” said Farrell.

“There’s one we kicked long and not out; the other one was out and a little bit short. But those are small bits that matter in the end.

“At the end of the day, I might sound stupid saying this but I thought it would have been unjust for England not to win the game. I thought they played really well.”