The 2003 world champions and Grand Slam winners fell 19-13 to title-chasing Ireland in Dublin and, after losses to both Wales and France in their opening two matches, England have made their worst start to a championship for 18 years.

But Robinson believes the team are heading in the right direction after an improved display at Lansdowne Road.

Weve lost another game but I could not be more proud of my players, he said.

A few of the decisions did not go our way but credit to Ireland they hung on and won the game.

Its three defeats in three games now but on a positive note the team is showing signs of coming on.

We played for 80 minutes and while defeat is not easy to swallow we will come back from this.

Robinson admitted Ireland could now go on to win the RBS 6 Nations Championship.

They are good enough, he said.

They have a balanced side, a strong pack, OGara is a good kicker and ODriscoll is always ready to run the ball.

They are a good team and could go all the way but there may be a twist in the tail yet.

At this level there are no such things as guarantees. You just turn up and give it your best and sometimes thats good enough and sometimes it isnt.

I think the championship will go right down to the wire and Wales are bound to have a say in it too.