DOES current form really matter when Ireland play England? It can be an emotional encounter for all involved; 'it isn't just another game' as Cian Healy declared during the week.
In the past three years England have defeated Ireland in the Six Nations. Ireland still ended the 2014 competition as winners so Joe Schmidt’s team responded impressively to last February’s loss at Twickenham.
Ireland did defeat England in 2010 and 2011; a similar outcome on Sunday would edge Schmidt’s charges one step closer to retaining their crown.
Ireland v England Six Nations clashes since 2010:
Saturday February 22, 2014 England 13-10 Ireland
Saturday February 10, 2013 Ireland 6-12 England
Saturday March 17, 2012 England 30-9 Ireland
Saturday March 19, 2011 Ireland 24-8 England
Saturday February 27, 2010 England 16-20 Ireland