James Haskell insists Ireland "got away with a lot" during their 19-9 RBS 6 Nations win over England in Dublin but says he can only admire the champions' canny approach.
Ireland’s comprehensive win means a Grand Slam has eluded England for a 12th successive year, and they must hope that Joe Schmidt’s unbeaten side slip up in their remaining fixtures against Wales and Scotland to keep them relevant to the title race.
Outwitted tactically and outmuscled, subdued England must also examine the brainless indiscipline that played into the hands of the hosts and that will dominate a frosty debrief this week.
Lancaster and captain Chris Robshaw looked inwards for criticism, refusing to blame referee Craig Joubert, and back-row forward Haskell also had no complaints despite believing Ireland had challenged the boundaries of the law book.
"Ireland got it right because you've got to play the referee and the conditions," Haskell said.
"They got the rub of the green. It's not about being street wise, it's about playing right on the edge and seeing what you can get away with. And I think Ireland got away with a lot.
"We were trying to meet that physical confrontation, but discipline at the breakdown was difficult. I don't think any decisions really went our way in that area. Ireland imposed themselves very well."
It was a worrying performance six months out form the World Cup and it is Ireland, for whom a second consecutive title beckons, who can rightfully claim to being the dominant force in the northern hemisphere.
New Zealand coach Steve Hansen was in attendance at Lansdowne Road and he will have left with the impression that it is the team coached by his compatriot Joe Schmidt and not the tournament hosts who will mount Europe's most meaningful challenge to his world champions.
England must regroup against Scotland on Saturday week and topple France seven days later, placing themselves in a position to strike should the title be decided by points difference once more.
"They got the rub of the green. It's not about being street wise, it's about playing right on the edge" - James Haskell
"We've been in situations like this before, we understand what's needed to get the train back on the tracks," Haskell said.
"This is a deviation, the boys will put their hands up and say we were beaten by a better side on the day. We weren't on the money, it's as simple as that.
"We've got two weeks until we play Scotland and whoever's in the team will have a lot of work to do, but we'll come out firing.
"There are afternoons you enjoy and then some pretty long afternoons when it doesn't go well at all. This was one of those days where it lingers and it's pretty disappointing."
England were kicked into submission in the round three match after Ireland put boot to leather on 44 occasions, 17 times more than their opponents, and Haskell believes they should continue with an approach that is serving them well.
"I think you can kick your way to a Grand Slam. If it works and it's effective, then you can do what you like to get a Grand Slam," Haskell said.
"We knew exactly what was going to happen, but it's one thing to know that, another thing to deal with it."
