Ireland defeated Scotland convincingly at Murrayfield but their victory was not confirm that until the end as Scotland provided a stiff resistance.

The Irish scored three tries to none, with Jamie Heaslip and Eoin Reddan going over in the first half.

Ronan O’Gara scored and converted a try after the break to make it 21-9 to Ireland, but Scotland fought back.

Chris Paterson kicked 12 points while a drop-goal from replacement Dan Parks took Scotland to within three points.

But despite Scotland’s strong late rally, Ireland overcame their late jitters and showed discipline in the final minutes, something which had been lacking from their play for most of the match.