Marcus Smith’s Drop-Goal Stuns Ireland, Ends Grand Slam Hopes
England’s Marcus Smith delivered a dramatic last-ditch drop-goal to secure a thrilling 23-22 victory over Ireland at Twickenham, ending the reigning Six Nations champions’ hopes of a successive Grand Slam.
Despite trailing 17-8 early in the second half, England rallied with tries from George Furbank and Ben Earl to take a 20-17 lead. Ireland’s James Lowe scored his second try to edge the visitors ahead, but Smith’s late heroics snatched victory for the hosts.
England dominated the first half, with Ollie Lawrence scoring the only try. However, Ireland’s Jack Crowley kept them in the game with four penalties, giving them a 12-8 halftime lead.
After Lowe’s early second-half try, England responded with Furbank’s score. Peter O’Mahony’s sin-binning proved costly for Ireland as Earl crossed for England’s third try.
Lowe’s second try in the 73rd minute seemed to have sealed Ireland’s victory, but Crowley’s missed conversion proved crucial. England refused to give up and Smith’s drop-goal in the dying moments secured a memorable triumph.
The victory revives England’s title hopes after their defeat to Scotland last time out. Ireland can still retain their crown with a win at home to Scotland next Saturday.
