Wales recorded their third successive rugby victory over Ireland on Sunday with a last minute penalty by Leigh Halfpenny providing a 23-21 victory in their Six Nations opener.

The Welsh scored three tries, two of them to centre Jonathan Davies, while the hosts managed two.

Irish winger Tommy Bowe brought up a century of Test points with his 20th try.

“That was the hardest kick I’ve had to take in all my life and I was very pleased to see it go over and get the win for Wales,” said Halfpenny of his match-winning effort after Ireland flanker Stephen Ferris was penalised for a dangerous tackle on Ian Evans.

“It was end-to-end stuff – an exciting game and all credit to Ireland. They went out and gave us a tough game.”

Ireland coach Declan Kidney was downcast.

“It is extremely disappointing but Wales took their opportunities,” he said.

“We didn’t build on our lead in the second-half and when we go ahead we have to go for the jugular.”