CARDIFF BLUES v ULSTER

JACOB STOCKDALE has become the fourth Irish winner of the Six Nations Player of the Championship award.

The 21-year-old follows in the footsteps of Brian O’driscoll – who won it three times – Tommy Bowe and Paul O’connell.

Stockdale topped the voting charts after scoring seven tries – the most ever in a championship – to help Ireland achieve the Grand Slam for only the third time in 137 years.

The Ulsterman secured 32% in the public verdict – 25,114 votes – with his Ireland colleague Conor Murray in second place with 18.2%, his out-half partner Johnny Sexton was next on 18% and then Keith Earls on 13.2%.

“It’s been a truly memorable few weeks, making my first Six Nations appearance, winning the championship then going on to complete the Grand Slam against England,” said Stockdale.

“Breaking the try-scoring record was the cherry on top. It’s an absolute honour to win the Player of the Championship, especially when you look at the amazing calibre of those shortlisted.”

CLOCKING UP AWARDS Grand Slam winner Jacob Stockdale with his trophy at home of Ulster yesterday