Shane Horgan felt Ireland's record 43-13 RBS 6 Nations demolition of England was a true reflection of their ability under the fiercest of pressure at Croke Park.

A lacklustre opener against Wales and a last-gasp defeat by France left their RBS 6 Nations teetering on the brink of ruin but yesterday's astonishing four-try rampage in Dublin has put the smile back on Irish faces.

Horgan was delighted his side's title hopes had been revived and maintained the margin of victory over England could prove crucial in the final shake-up.

But Ireland still require France's 100% record to crumble against England or Scotland and Horgan is also aware Ireland could yet be ambushed in Edinburgh or Rome.

He said: "The manner of the win showed where we are as a team. We didn't perform in the first couple of matches in this competition.

"We were disappointed with the standard we set against Wales and France. But, against England, we showed where we're at and where we can go.

"It was exciting and pleasing to beat the old enemy with that much to spare.

"Hopefully, we've played our way back into the championship. The margin of victory will help as well.

"It may come down to points difference and we still need someone to do us a favour by beating France.

"We have to finish off Scotland and Italy and they'll be difficult assignments.

"It's one thing to play at Croke Park with everyone behind you but we have to do the hard work as well in those fixtures away from home."

Horgan, who ran in the third try and was a menace throughout, revealed Ireland were fired up like never before for England's first visit to Croke Park.

The Leinster winger was also pleased his side kept faith with their attacking instincts, even when heavy rain began to descend.

"In terms of mindset we improved on the France game. I haven't seen the team pumped up like that for a long time," he said.

"There was a lot said in the dressing room beforehand and emotions were running high.

"We were disappointed when it started to rain but, in conditions like that, you really have to trust your skills.

"Peter Stringer and Ronan O'Gara threw the ball out wide and we didn't stick it up our jumper. We showed creativity and were rewarded for it."

Gordon D'Arcy hailed the impact centre partner Brian O'Driscoll had, with Ireland's skipper returning after missing the France game with a hamstring strain.

"Brian is the best centre in the world," D'Arcy said.

"Every team wants him, would love to have him in the team and we're no different.

"He gives so much belief to those around him. Paul O'Connell led the team against France but, against England, he had a fantastic game.

"With Brian there, he was able to control the pack and get that edge up-front.

"I love playing with Brian - his ability to haul down two or three players gives me so much space."

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