Ireland record big win at the Carlisle Grounds

The Irish added two more tries prior to the half time break, to go in 22 points to the good.

The second half began with neither team able to trouble the scoreboard early on.

The Irish did break the deadlock and went on to increase their lead before Spain got a score that was deserving of their efforts.

After a series of penalties close to the Irish line the Spanish muscled up and went over towards the left flank.

This was to be their only respite as the Irish then started moving the ball well and found holes out wide in the Spanish defence.

This would allow the Irish to add a further three tries before the hooter sounded.

The Spanish are out of qualification, but they have come a long way in a very short space of time and should be rightly proud of their efforts.

For the Irish the late flurry of scores means they now go into next week’s showdown with Russia at the top of the group on points difference and with their destiny in their own hands.

It sets up a mouth-watering clash between the two at Bray next Saturday afternoon and the winner books their place to the world cup with the team that loses heading to the UK for a elimination playoff for the final spot. Roll on next Saturday!

Ireland will now face Russia in the group decider next Saturday in the Carlisle Grounds. Kick off: 5pm.