Six Nations: How 2015 ‘Super Saturday’ ended with Ireland celebrating in their suits
Ireland chose Luke Fitzgerald in the left wing, marking Leinster Man’s first international start in nearly four years.
A career-threatening neck issue kept the 2009 British and Irish Lions off the field in other injuries, but Schmidt supported him to “bring a real freshness” when he returned.
Fitzgerald remembers the game “playing crazy rhythms”, but Ireland accepted the abnormality and surpassed the Magic’s 21-point goal after the hour’s recognition.
“I got some nice touch myself, which was great. It got me fixed it early in the game,” Fitzgerald said.
“We performed very well, probably stayed there, and we had other good opportunities.”
Sean O’Brien’s second attempt further improved their points difference in the end phase, but the remaining five minutes seemed to be a severe blow to their title desire.
Stuart Hogg celebrates with a fierce pass from Finn Russell on the right wing and bounces in the corner.
It was only after the TMO review that it was clear that Ireland No. 8 Jamie Heaslip had the ball off the ground.
“This is one thing I always remember about Jamie,” Fitzgerald said.
“I think it encapsulates his career. He is such a detail, really hard and really fit.
“This is the one we can let go, but he’s always focused on the end.”
Ireland has a last chance to set England as a stronger goal. Ian Madigan’s replacement for Johnny Sexton has been transformed into O’Brien’s latter score, but the final penalty attempt disappeared.
“There was a decision to play three or go to the corner, and to get points, and to decide to have three points,” Madigan recalled.
“I know it’s a big kick, and it hits well (but) it attracts leniency.
“Immediately, I’m praying.”
