Assistant coach Andrew Goodman says there is an extra edge in Ireland’s camp ahead of a potential Guinness Six Nations title decider against Scotland.

Andy Farrell’s squad spent Saturday afternoon cheering on the Scots to a dramatic 50-40 success over France which ensured the battle for championship glory would go down to a three-way shootout on the final day.

With the Triple Crown also on the line on Saturday in Dublin, Ireland must beat title rivals Scotland and then hope table-topping France slip up at home to England.

“It’s an amazing buzz. It’s great to be part of a last week when there’s plenty on the line,” said attack coach Goodman.

“As you can imagine, there was some quite loud roaring for Scotland on Saturday afternoon.

“It was great to sit back after getting the five points (against Wales), still knowing that we didn’t get the performance we were chasing down, but it creates a good edge for the week.

“We know there’s a Triple Crown within our control, and then who knows what’s going to happen the way this competition’s been going.

“What a great advertisement for the game. I think it has to be one of the best Six Nations for a long time, with the competition week to week, so it’s been great to be part of. “

Ireland secured a 27-17 bonus-point triumph over Wales on Friday evening to make it three wins from four in what proved to be the least dramatic round-four fixture.

Scotland and defending champions France then served up a 13-try classic at Murrayfield before Italy registered a landmark first victory over England, winning 23-18 in Rome.

The Scots begin the weekend two points above Ireland as they chase a first Triple Crown in 36 years and a maiden Six Nations title, with Les Bleus currently in pole position courtesy of points difference.

“It’s where we all want to be: the players and the management group want to be part of these big games that have got real importance to them,” said Goodman.

“There’s lots of excitement, a little bit of nerves, as you can imagine, and some good edge around the place.”

Ireland have won 11 matches in a row against Scotland – a run dating back to February 2017 and spanning the entire tenure of opposition head coach Gregor Townsend – and 15 of the last 16.

Both sides lost their opening matches of the championship, with the Scots suffering a surprise 18-15 defeat to Italy in rain-soaked Rome after Ireland were hammered 36-14 in Paris.

“I’m sure they’ll come here with lots of belief and confidence around what they’ve been able to do over the last three weeks after a tough start like we had as well,” said Goodman.

“I’d say listening to what they’re saying as a group, their belief is as high as it’s ever been. I’m sure it’ll be up there with one of the better (Scotland) teams that have travelled over to these shores.”

PA