Ireland held off a spirited Italy to secure a bonus-point win in Rome, but their hopes of winning a third consecutive Six Nations title were ended by England's win over Wales.

Dan Sheehan's hat-trick helped Ireland secure a 22-17 victory over Italy, putting them at the top of the Six Nations table. Despite a scrappy performance, Ireland hopes to claim the title again if Wales beats England and Scotland defeats France.

Ireland overcame Italy by a scrappy 22-17 at the Stadio Olimpico and finished the last day of the Six Nations where it started, in third place. Ireland had slim hopes of an historic third consecutive title,