Inside centre Mark Bennett was named man of the match for his contributions while Lineen was also full of praise for a host of other players who rose to the occasion in Galashiels.

Ireland’s narrow victory over England means Wales are the only team with two wins from their opening two matches and Lineen is hopeful his side continue to improve as their campaign unravels.

“I’m so pleased with the players’ ambitions, they are a good bunch of guys and they work very well together,” said Lineen.

“Jonny Gray had an outstanding game, Adam Ashe showed his talent, he’ll go a long way, Mark Bennett needs no introduction and deserved the man-of-the-match title, Phil Cringle, Tommy Allan, Will Bordill and a number of others all played very well.

“They wanted to play an expansive game and at times that paid off, but at other times mistakes were made. They have to keep working hard and developing particularly in their decision-making.

“But, we’ll learn an awful lot from it.”