Six Nations 2016: Wales comeback denies Ireland in thrilling Dublin draw

Ireland (13) 16

Try: Murray; Conversions: Sexton; Penalties: Sexton 3

Wales (10) 16

Try: Faletau; Conversions: Priestland; Penalties: Priestland

Ireland and Wales were left both frustrated after a draw in their thrilling Six Nations opener at the Aviva Stadium. The defending champions went 13-0 in front through Conor Murray's try but Warren Gatland's side staged a comeback either side of half time and could have taken all the points after Rhys Priestland kicked them into a three-point lead.

Priestland replaced the injured Dan Biggar in the first half and his metronomic boot looked like sending Wales to a famous comeback, but they were denied at the death. Sexton kicked his third penalty from fully 40m to clinch the first stalemate between these two nations since 1974 while ending each side's grand slam hopes prematurely.

The 2014 and 2015 winners made a fast start in the opening half an hour as Murray's try and Sexton's two penalties almost put Ireland out of sight. Priestland came on for Biggar and turned things around first with a penalty and then a conversion from Toby Faletau's try.

The Bath man put Wales ahead with eight minutes remaining, but the visitors were unable to see out the victory as Sexton sent a penalty through the posts. Both sides went in pursuit of victory in the final minutes with Priestland missing a late drop goal to leave the pair disappointed as they lose early ground on France and England.

"I was disappointed with first 20 minutes, we talked before the game about having to start well because Ireland always come flying out of the blocks," Wales captain Sam Warburton told ITV Sport. "We're pleased that we weathered the storm and managed to fight back. A draw is not a good result for anyone. It takes away the possibility of a Grand Slam or Triple Crown, and it means we have got to take another big scalp down the line to win the Championship. But we have got three home games now so that's the positive."

Ireland skipper Rory Best added: "A draw is a hard result to put into words. We're happy we didn't lose the game. After going behind for the first time with six minutes or so remaining, we showed great character to come back and get the draw. "That's the positive and we have a lot of things to work on.

"We wanted to start well, because with the way Wales defend it is a hard task to get back on top of them if they go ahead. When we got the ball in the opening half hour, we looked dangerous so it was pleasing. To let them find a way back is a bit disappointing."