While English pundits lamented the absence of recently-retired captain Martin Johnson from a pack out-played and out-fought by the spirited Irish forwards in the 19-13 upset, OGara insisted: It was more the effect of Jonny not playing.

"He was probably a bigger loss because I dont think our forwards would have minded who was in front of them. They were up for it and they really put in an effective performance.

Maybe the leadership of Johnson played a part because he has the experience but Wilkinson was missed more because of how creative he can be.

OGaras 14-point haul - four penalties and the conversion of full-back Girvan Dempseys second half try after his initial fourth-minute penalty kick rebounded from the post - enabled him to celebrate Sunday's 27th birthday a night early.

Even the most fervent England supporter could not begrudge OGara and the Irish their celebrations after a great day but it did not start that way when the heavens opened over London prior to kick-off.

We werent happy to see rain pouring down and didnt want to be battling the conditions with a slippery ball, said OGara.

But it did not stop Ireland striking the crucial blow when Dempsey finished a move described as straight off the training field - delightful by coach Eddie O'Sullivan.