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England scored five tries against the outclassed Irish

Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan had no complaints after his side's 42-6 hammering by England in Sunday's RBS Grand Slam decider at Lansdowne Road.

"A couple of breaks went against us at crucial times but the best team won," said the Irish coach.

"We were very competitive for phases of the game but a match can turn on small things".

The Irish coach said his players had tried "their guts out against a superb English side".

"We played very well in the first half but we needed a score before half-time.

"We threw everything but the kitchen sink at them but instead they hit us with a drop goal.

"They strangled us out of the game in the second half. Their pack controlled the game and we couldn't get the ball".

Despite the heavy defeat, O'Sullivan said he was proud of his players' efforts in the championship.

England showed why they are the number one side in the world Brian O'Driscoll

"They gave it everything but England were too good on the day".

Irish captain Brian O'Driscoll acknowledged that the home side had been "completely outplayed".

"But before this game, we had won 10 on the trot so we've a lot to be proud of," said the Irish skipper.

"England showed why they are the number one side in the world.

"We were still in the game at 13-6 down but we conceded a soft try and the floodgates opened a bit after that.

"The final scoreline was maybe a bit flattering for them but credit to England for a great performance".

O'Driscoll said he had leave the field in the closing stages because of a dead leg but added that the knock wasn't serious.