Ireland edge out France in epic contest

Ireland boosted their Six Nations title hopes and ended France’s run of 14 straight wins as they battled to a pulsating bonus-point win in Dublin. Ireland scored three first-half tries with Hugo Keenan, James Lowe and Andrew Porter all crossing, Damian Penaud’s brilliant counter-attacking try and three Thomas Ramos penalties kept France in touch.

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France survive major scare to edge past Italy

Defending champions France came from behind to avoid a shock defeat against Italy in a thrilling Six Nations game. The Azzurri led 24-22 before Matthieu Jalibert sniped over from close range as France claimed a bonus-point win at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.

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Scotland strike late to stun England claiming Calcutta Cup

Duhan van der Merwe ensured Steve Borthwick’s England reign was launched with an agonising defeat after the Scotland wing crossed twice in a Calcutta Cup classic at Twickenham. Van der Merwe plundered his decisive second try in the 74th minute as Scotland came from behind to record a dramatic victory in their Guinness Six Nations opener.

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Ireland made to work to earn bonus point win over Wales

Warren Gatland’s return was spoiled by Ireland as the world’s number one side humbled Wales in the opening Six Nations match in Cardiff. Ireland’s storming start saw tries from Caelan Doris, James Ryan and James Lowe – and 12 points from Johnny Sexton – establish a 27-3 half-time lead that Wales would never manage to surmount.

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Man United brush aside Forest to lineup Carabao Cup final with Newcastle

Manchester United eased through their EFL Cup semi-final second-leg with Nottingham Forest to book a 1999 Wembley rematch with Newcastle. Second-half goals from Anthony Martial and Fred ensured victory on the night for Erik ten Hag’s side, even though a place in the final was virtually secure anyway thanks to their 3-0 first-leg triumph at the City Ground.

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