Ireland champions despite England heroics

Paris - Two tries by man of the match Sean O'Brien inspired defending champions Ireland to a 40-10 win over a hapless Scotland in their final Six Nations match on Saturday in Edinburgh, which ultimately proved just enough to secure their first back to back title wins since 1948/49.

England did their best to spoil the party with a stunning display of attacking rugby and fell just short of the 26 points win difference they required with a 55-35 humbling of France at Twickenham.

The agonising near miss leaves England without the trophy since 2011 while France finished fourth and have never managed better under coach Philippe Saint-Andre in four campaigns.