Six Nations talking points: Round four delivers thrills and shocks

Ireland are about to get a shot at the title after beating brave Wales 27-17 in Dublin.

But their title hopes depend on beating Scotland and an out-of-form England beating France in Paris.

Ireland failed to reach the heights they reached when dismantling England a fortnight ago and struggled deeply to earn the bonus point they needed to keep them in the title conversation.

Wales gave a good account of themselves and Rhys Carre can look back with pride after a superb solo try saw the prop head over the line following a run that started outside the Ireland 22.

“Defensively Wales were a lot better and a lot more physical than they were in round one,” Sam Warburton told Rugby Special. “They were stunned against England but now they’re competitive. They haven’t won in Dublin since 2012, it’s always a challenge but they’ve done well.

“They found their central combination and the front five provided a very good platform defensively with their ball carrying and striking.

“I was worried they were going to be the 30-point kids, but they turned it around after the first round and I’m very pleased.”

England’s improved performances since the 48-7 defeat in the first round give Wales hope of ending their run of 15 consecutive Six Nations defeats in their last game, even though they will host an Italy team buoyed by a historic win over England.