The Counter Ruck: Wales walloping leaves Ireland one win away from the Six Nations title

Nathan Johns is joined by Gerry Thornley and Gordon D'Arcy

Listen | 42:02
Tadhg Beirne scores his side’s fourth try against Wales as Ireland made it three wins from three in this year's Guinness Six Nations Championship. Photographer: Dan Sheridan/INPHO
Tadhg Beirne scores his side’s fourth try against Wales as Ireland made it three wins from three in this year's Guinness Six Nations Championship. Photographer: Dan Sheridan/INPHO

Ireland were not at their fluid best on Saturday but they did not have to be, beating Wales 31-7 at the Aviva Stadium.

How did Wales stilt the Irish attack somewhat? Just how good is Ireland’s defence? Does Andy Farrell have a replacement bench to rival the South African bomb squad?

The panel chats through all the talking points from the Irish victory, as well as the other notable games from the weekend. England, Ireland’s next opponents, come in for some heavy criticism after their defeat to Scotland, while France’s downfall under Fabien Galthié brings to mind memories of the end of the Joe Schmidt Ireland era in 2019.

Produced by John Casey