The 'old guard' give their views on the match

SYD MILLAR

‘I’m absolutely delighted for this group of players. The Grand Slam was always their priority but we must remember they have already won three Triple Crowns. The winning mentality that Munster players brought into the Irish set-up was evident throughout this season. We went to Cardiff 40 years ago in search of the Slam but lost our concentration, something that cannot be said of Saturday’s performance. ’

FERGUS SLATTERY

‘I thought we had thrown it away, with the 15-5 penalty county a horrific statistic, so in many respects we got out of jail when Stephen Jones’ kick fell short. Then again we got a bounce of the ball for Bowe’s try and an earlier Jones penalty went in off the post so it evens out. Whatever Declan Kidney said at half-time they clearly decided to attack the Welsh left wing. Kidney’s preparation in the media, keeping his powder dry, was bullet proof.’

CIARÁN FITZGERALD

‘The five minutes after half-time, like against Scotland, showed they possessed the ability to step up a gear when necessary.

There is a core of leaders on the team but Paul O’Connell kept us in it by dominating the lineout and, when it really mattered, Brian O’Driscoll got the crucial try. Any team would appreciate one of them, we are extremely fortunate to have both men.’

CONOR O’SHEA

‘This result elevates modern legends to new levels. Already incredible role models, men like Paul O’Connell and Brian O’Driscoll now give kids playing rugby something new to emulate. It also sets a seriously high benchmark for the next generation of internationals. This team really was a mix of two groups with the arrival of Heaslip, Ferris, Kearney, Fitzgerald, Tomás O’Leary and even Keith Earls auguring really well for the future.

PHIL ORR

‘I remember winning the Triple Crown in 1982 after 49 years but once that was achieved we won another three years later. These guys already have three Triple Crowns so I can see them going on to win another Grand Slam. Just like Munster in Europe, the first is always the most difficult. Indiscipline could’ve been their undoing, especially the last penalty, but luck was with us. Ronan O’Gara also could’ve been the villain but he came good in the end. ’

TREVOR BRENNAN

‘Slamdog Millionaires! After being unable to explain the Rugby World Cup performances, a fresh impetus of management and coaches leads to this.

Brian O’Driscoll, as a captain, was outstanding. People wrote him off last year and then he comes back and scores a try against England and repeats the trick here.

Declan Kidney’s selection policy would also have to be applauded.’