Owen Farrell kicked England to a 12-6 win over Ireland in Six Nations rugby on Sunday, installing his team as favourites to win the tournament.

The unflappable flyhalf booted two penalties in each half to settle a hard-fought, tetchy match played in driving rain at Lansdowne Road and clinch England a second straight victory in this year’s competition.

Substitute Ronan O’Gara replied with two penalties of his own for Ireland, which turned around 6-0 down at halftime after struggling to adapt to the filthy conditions.

The result leaves England as the only unbeaten side in the tournament

following the win over Scotland in the opening round.