Poor discipline cost us in Dublin, says Haskell

The Grand Slam has eluded Stuart Lancaster’s men for a fourth successive year and they must hope the unbeaten Irish slip up in their remaining fixtures against Wales and Scotland to keep them relevant to the title race.

Outwitted tactically and outmuscled, subdued England must also examine the brainless indiscipline that played into the hands of the new tournament favourites and that will dominate a frosty debrief this week

Lancaster and captain Chris Robshaw looked inwards for criticism, refusing to blame referee Craig Joubert, and his fellow back-row forward Haskell also had no complaints despite believing Ireland had challenged the boundaries of the law book.

“Ireland got it right because you’ve got to play the referee and the conditions,” said Haskell.

“They got the rub of the green. It’s not about being streetwise, it’s about playing right on the edge and seeing what you can get away with. And I think Ireland got away with a lot. We were trying to meet that physical confrontation, but discipline at the breakdown was difficult. I don’t think any decisions went our way in that area.”

England must regroup against Scotland on March 14 and topple France seven days later, placing themselves in a position to strike should the title be decided by points difference once more.

“We’ve been in situations like this before, we understand what’s needed to get the train back on the tracks,” added Haskell.

“This is a deviation, the boys will put their hands up and say we were beaten by a better side on the day.

“We weren’t on the money, it’s as simple as that.”