We played below our best and the Irish improved on their previous performance so there looked like a huge gulf in between the two teams. If England played to their true potential it would have been a lot closer.

The Irish learned their lessons from two weeks ago against France when they were very emotional and anxious because of playing at Croke Park for the first time. England were the ones affected by playing at Croke Park on Saturday.

All the outstanding players were on Ireland's side. When eight or nine players play well it is very hard to beat that team.

Simon Easterby was fantastic - he plays a very similar role at flanker to Richard Hill. You do not always see him but you know he is doing a lot of hard work.

Harry Ellis competed well and was at the heart of all England's efforts. It was also a fine debut for David Strettle - he can be proud of scoring a try.

Against France we have nothing to lose because no one thinks England are going to win. There will be little pressure on the players compared to the pressure on them at Croke Park.

France are the only team en route to the Grand Slam but they have never found Twickenham a happy hunting ground. It will be refreshing for England just to go out and play.