Tries from the Dragons' Kevin Morgan and The Blues' Gethin Jenkins along with 16 points from the boot of former Scarlet's flyhalf Stephen Jones were key to the historic triumph, also their first at home against Ireland since 1983.

"The big thing for us is that we've shown no fear all season and now we've been rewarded by winning the Grand Slam," commented Ruddock at the emotional end of the title race. 
 
"Today is all about the players - they're the ones who make the tackles, score the tries and put their bodies on the line. They deserve all the plaudits they get.'' 

Ireland, who still had a chance to win the Championship coming into the game, eventually finished third in the title race with France pipping them to second after a big win in Rome against Italy.

Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan was quick to praise the achievement of the Welsh, saying, "This was Wales' day, no doubt. They got a few breaks at important times but I don't want to take anything away from their performance. They deserve their Grand Slam."

Scotland ended their Championship with another defeat, exhibiting glimpses of excellence but finally falling by the wayside against England, 43-22 at Twickenham.

Under fire Scotland coach Matt Williams commented, "I thought we played some excellent rugby but we are missing the tackles. It's a problem we have to work on."