Ireland versus England matches are one of the most important sporting events for any Irish man or woman. Call it revenge for the past or simple bragging rights, this particular fixture grabs the country's attention.
Here at Balls.ie, we love a big game preview. Ireland face England at the Aviva Stadium on Sunday, knowing that a win could lead to a second Grand Slam in 6 years.
Historically, England have always got the better of the Irish. However, we have particular fond memories, such as the 2007 hammering over the English. Results have been back and forth since (England winning 4, Ireland 3). However, the results only seem to tell half the story.
18 February 1984
Despite Ireland losing 12-9 at Twickenham, it was the best result they had at the tournament. Willie Duggan (pictured below) was one of the 15 wearing the iconic Irish jersey that day. If that's not a man to fear, I don't know who is.
30 March 1985
Back when the tournament excluded Italy, the 'Five Nations' win over England was always far and few between. That made 1985 game all the more special when Ireland defeated their opponents to claim the Triple Crown at Lansdowne Road. What an image!!
15 February 1997
Recognise that guy to the left? One mightn't like Martin Johnson, but you have to respect him. Paddy Johns gets up to claim the ball from a lineout during Ireland's home loss to the English.
5 February 2000
A disappointing day for the Irish and not one we would like to see too much of. The English physicality was far too much for the likes of a 20-year-old Brian O Driscoll and co. The former Irish captain had only made his international debut eight months earlier. Considering the service he has given his country, I think we'll leave him off with that one.
20 October 2001
Another special day in Irish rugby history as Trevor Brennan celebrates with a delirious fan having beaten England 20-14 in Dublin. Unfortunately, it wasnt enough to prevent the English from claiming yet another 6 nations title.
16 February 2002
Despite winning the previous year, Ireland were unable to repeat the outcome in 2002 as they fell victims to 45-11 defeat in front of a packed Twickenham stadium. Peter Stringer and Mick Galway's blast of the national anthem was the highlight for the men in green.
30 March 2003
The turn of the century proved to have some of the more iconic images of the Ireland v England fixture. Remember the game where both teams went into the final match with a grand slam up for grabs at Lansdowne Road? Well this was that day. However, England cruised to a 42-6 win, before going on to lift the World Cup later on that year.
24 February 2007
Every Irish fan will remember this famous day. After all the controversy, protests and history lessons, the game finally went ahead at Croke Park. The noise levels for Amhrain na Bhfiann was nothing like we ever experienced as even John 'The Bull' Hayes was reduced to tears. Ireland won the game 43-13.
28 February 2009
If only the World Cup was held that year, Ireland surely would have won. Brian O Driscoll's try ensures the Irish defeat their rivals on their way to their first Grand Slam in 61 years.
10 February 2013
Jamie Heaslip's passion comes to light as he celebrates a victorious Ireland scrum. The game finished 12-6 to England at the Aviva Stadium. No tries were scored meaning that the game was won from the boot.
