A decisive 37-16 triumph gave the Irish a full compliment of victories over home nations opposition for the first time since 1985, which coincidentally was also the last year Scotland suffered a championship whitewash.

Fans were treated to a sparkling five-try demolition of the Scots and were eager to acclaim their heroes achievement by enthusiastically cheering the players celebratory march around Lansdowne Road.

And such a rousing reception was well deserved given Irelands fortunes in the tournament, finishing runners-up for the second year running and deservedly pipping world champions England to second place.

Supporters could be forgiven for wondering what might have been had Grand Slam winners France in Paris not been the first championship assignment for their side, but ODriscoll is content to revel in Triple Crown success.

Its a very special feeling to have won the Triple Crown. We didnt get ahead of ourselves - we knew we had to face Scotland and not play the occasion, which was a point we have been making all week, he said.

We did a very professional job and showed our resolve when they came back at us in the second half. Its a very proud time for me and everyone who has been involved in the squad.

The atmosphere in the dressing room afterwards was euphoric. We felt like a winning side which had achieved something. There was a sense of satisfaction that all our hard work had culminated in something tangible.