Irish Rugby

Chris Henry and Paddy Jackson may have got the tries but fellow Ulsterman Andrew Trimble got the plaudits on Saturday, receiving a tremendous reception from the Aviva Stadium crowd when he was replaced in the second half.

Andrew Trimble had one of his best ever games in an Ireland jersey against defending Six Nations champions Wales, outclassing his opposite number, Lions star George North.

Back at Ravenhill today for a brief visit, the Ireland winger was able to reflect on the stunning 26-3 win.

"Saturday was class," admitted Trimble. "I think we brought together the things that you need to compete and perform well at international level - we were accurate and we were passionate.

"Physically we were really good and tactically we got a lot of things right. Up front we took them on. The big catch and drive went so well. It was just great to be part of such a memorable performance."

Despite having won over 50 international caps, Saturday's win was the first time that Trimble has started consecutive matches for Ireland in two years.

"I always thought I would get another chance at it but I definitely didn't think going into the Scotland game that I would hear my name being read out," said the 29-year-old.

"That game went reasonably well and then I got another chance and I was even more happy with how I performed against Wales.

"I feel like I am building momentum nicely and I am really enjoying every weekend and every chance I get to wear the green jersey in the Six Nations.

"With Twickenham just around the corner it's exciting and I would love to be involved in the game against England.

"We will see what happens but fingers crossed - I am just really looking forward to the potential of playing a big part in this Six Nations campaign."

Felix Jones, who is the visiting coach in Ireland camp this week, spoke to Irish Rugby TV about how 'interesting' and 'valuable' his time in Tokyo has been, and also what the transition from player to coach is like. He retired in October 2015 and is now Munster's back-line and attack coach.

Speaking ahead of Saturday's second Test against Japan, Ireland tour captain Rhys Ruddock said: "We've been happy with the results so far, and there's been bits of the performances we've been really happy with and some bits that we're looking to improve on. Tomorrow marks the last opportunity to go out and do that, so we're all really excited about getting out there now."