Of course it always affects one when one is whistled. One gives ones best each time, but it doesn't always come off.

We were following Scotland rather than playing our own game and imposing our style on them and mastering them. We have to have a good analysis of the game before we play Ireland and work out why it went wrong.

It's true that you feel so much better once you get out on the field. I need to recover 100 per cent to be ready for Scotland.

I am aware that I am playing at difficult moments, when you have to concentrate the most. I take this as a vote of confidence.

It is already like a final. We are still on course for a Grand Slam and this is a great feeling.

The mood is very good and very relaxed. However, having seen them play so well it has given us a little edge in training because the Irish are at the top of their form, playing very well and it's going to be a very tough match,