The win gave England their third successive Grand Slam making it seven RBS 6 Nations titles on the bounce for head coach Gary Street’s side.

Although Ireland lost their first match of the Championship against France they hit their straps subsequently and were going for a Triple Crown at Moseley Road.

McLean led by example with an individual 18-point haul with Amy Turner scoring England’s other try, but the fly-half reserved credit for Ireland’s performance.

“We’re absolutely elated – it’s an incredible feeling,” she said.

“All credit to Ireland they played a really good, astute tactical game.

“This is definitely the best we’ve played all tournament – I feel I need another game as I’m starting to peak.

“We’re starting to raise our level, but now we get a bit of a break which is nice.

“It’s been really pleasing to captain the side. It’s easy to get motivation, you put on that white shirt and it’s just all about winning.

“I’m so proud to captain my country, it’s the highest honour – to lift trophies is amazing.”

Street also applauded Ireland and the way his team toughed it out in defence against Fiona Coghlan’s team.

“I think I’m just really proud of them – winning seven titles is massive,” he said.

“Not conceding a try in the Six Nations is huge.

“We were expecting a massive challenge from Ireland, we know their players inside out and their first XV is a really good side, it’s their best ever side and performance I'd say.

“At half-time there was no panic though. I thought second-half we got really on top, we needed a bit of tweaking and I like keeping the girls on their toes.

“I thought the last 20 minutes we really dominated them.”