We’re all human beings, Jones says after loss to Ireland
a lot of discussions to go.” Before the match, Jones had suggested Ireland might play a ‘kick and clap’ game.
Ireland, understandably took issue with the implication they had a limited approach.
But in classic ‘Irish’ rainswept conditions, it was the hosts who produced the superior wet-weather rugby.
“Ireland played superbly and they were too good for us on the day,” said Jones.
Perform under pressure
“We’re all human beings, we’re not perfect, and that’s why world records finish at 18 games because it’s hard to keep going.
“They used the conditions superbly, we probably didn’t.”
Meanwhile, Jones dismissed talk the loss had lifted a weight from England’s shoulders, saying: “No, I think it’s fantastic having the pressure to perform.
“To win the World you’ve got to win seven row, you’ve got to cope that pressure.
“That was like a World Cup final today and we weren’t good enough.”
Jones, appointed after England’s World Cup flop on home soil two years ago, has long made it clear his ultimate goal is to win the 2019 edition in Japan. “We’re 14 months into Cup in a with a four-year project,” he “Full credit to Ireland, were brilliantly coached executed their plan well.
“We’ll have more setbacks as we move towards the World Cup,” he added after England were denied a Grand Slam in Dublin for the third time since 2001.
Both Ireland and England were captained by potential Lions skippers in hookers Rory Best and Dylan Hartley respectively.
Ireland coach Joe Schmidt, asked whether his fellow New Zealander Warren Gatland, the Lions boss, should pick Best as captain of the combined side, replied: “My choice doesn’t count for anything, so I don’t really express it.
“I’m incredibly proud of him (Best) and the way he leads the team. I’m delighted he’s our leader.” said. they and