WHILE THE OUTCOME may have been disappointing, The Guardian‘s Robert Kitson wrote that there were “plenty of positives” for Ireland on Saturday.

Kitson praised the form of Sexton as well as emphasising the impression made by Ireland’s younger players, while highlighting their casualty list.

“They – and the Lions in 2017 – will be desperately hoping a fully-fit Sean O’Brien, Peter O’Mahony and Iain Henderson come roaring back later this year,” the report added.

BBC Sport‘s Tom Fordyce criticised Ireland’s decision-making, suggesting they failed to make the most of good opportunities.

“Joe Schmidt’s side lost three of their four attacking line-outs on the England line and blew an attacking scrum in the same auspicious position; they won 10 turnovers to England’s two yet too often brought pressure back on to themselves with poor decisions and sloppy execution.”

The Daily Mail were more critical, describing the Irish team as a “fading force,” pointing to their poor recent record under Joe Schmidt, though Stuart McCloskey’s display drew praise from the paper.

For the first time since Joe Schmidt took over in 2013, Ireland have gone four games without a victory. They are lacking a general without Paul O’Connell, while Johnny Sexton is having less influence on proceedings.

“The visitors lacked potency in England’s 22, blowing multiple scoring opportunities, and demonstrated poor execution. Debutant Stuart McCloskey, however, offered reason for hope in midfield.”

The Sun’s report carried a similar tone, claiming Ireland are no longer the formidable outfit they once were.

“As for the Irish, this was hardly the all-singing, all-dancing champions of the Brian O’Driscoll era.

With the retirement of Paul O’Connell and injuries to key men, it was hardly the champions of last season, either.

“But they still posed far more problems than they should — and had it not been for some tremendous defence late on, England might not have won.”

Finally, Ireland may have been beaten, but the Telegraph were still impressed by Donnacha Ryan, who made their Six Nations team of the week.

“You could tell from Ryan’s face during the anthems at Twickenham that he was ready to go into battle, and he did so with gusto. A fine all-round display and unlucky to be on the losing side.”

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