Ireland retains Six Nations title with tense 17-13 win over Scotland

Ireland has clinched back-to-back Six Nations titles after defeating Scotland 17-13 in Dublin.

The Irish, who were denied successive Grand Slams when they fell 23-22 to England last week, produced a nervous performance against Scotland.

They held an unconvincing 7-6 half-time lead, but Andy Farrell's team showed far more intent straight after the break.

Andrew Porter's 65th-minute try put daylight between the sides, but a late five-pointer scored by Scotland's Huw Jones and an Irish yellow card set up a tense finish.

The victory helped ease the disappointment of Ireland's crushing World Cup quarterfinal defeat last year.

"These days don't come around very often," Ireland captain Peter O'Mahony said.

"We put in a lot of hard work, going back to the World Cup. It was tough but it galvanised us.

"To come back from that defeat, it shows the character in the group we have."

Dan Sheehan also scored a try for Ireland, with Jack Crowley kicking two conversions and a penalty goal.

In addition to Jones's try, Scotland's points came from the boot of Finn Russell, who slotted two penalty goals and a conversion.

It is Ireland's fifth Six Nations crown in 11 years, having also won in 2014, 2015, 2019 and 2023.

O'Mahony, Conor Murray and Cian Healy have been involved in all five titles.

Ireland topped the Six Nations standings with 20 points via a 4-1 win-loss record.

In other results, France pipped England 33-31 in Lyon to claim second spot.

France finished with 15 points, one ahead of England. Scotland was fourth on 12 points.

Meanwhile, Italy managed its second win of the tournament with a 24-21 defeat of last-placed Wales in Cardiff.

Ireland will face Australia in November, when the Wallabies embark on their spring tour.

Reuters/ABC