James Lowe the subject of discussion following Irish win over Scotland
Sport

James Lowe the subject of discussion following Irish win over Scotland

IRELAND DEFEATED Scotland in a tense Six Nations game on Sunday, thanks to a late Johnny Sexton penalty.

Sexton's late kick saw the Irish side win 27-24, after a late comeback attempt from the Scots.

Ireland were winning for the majority of the game, but will be relieved that they saw out the win after a strong effort from Scotland.

Despite the victory, it was James Lowe who was the subject of debate after the game, with Virgin Media pundit Matt Williams questioning whether the 28-year-old is strong enough to play at such a high level.

"I hate to pick on James Lowe because he's a lovely guy but that is just not acceptable at international level," said Williams.

"You just can't reach out like that at shoulder level. I don't want to kick James, but I don't think think he's at the level required in defence in international rugby and he's being caught out.

"I think he has a lot of quality and I'm not saying he's not up to it, or written off, I just think he has a lot of learning to do as regards the intensity required for defence."

Meanwhile, coach Andy Farrell said that a conversation will be had with Lowe.

He said: "We'll sit down with James. There's obviously others that we need to sit down, with him, and keep educating them.

"But as far as progressing James' game, I suppose we'll help him like we help everyone else as well."