Six Nations 2017: Scores, Updated Table After Friday's Round 4 Result

Wales put Ireland to the sword in the 2017 Six Nations, defeating the visitors 22-9 in a pulsating game in Cardiff on Friday night.

The victory improves table-topping England's chance to reclaim the title if they defeat fourth-placed Scotland on Saturday.

In a punishing display that saw both teams fight with incredible ferocity, the hosts had to withstand a late drive by Ireland as they battled to the limit.

Here is Friday's Six Nations result:

Home	Score	Away
Wales	22-9	Ireland

Here is the latest table, per BBC 5 live Sport:

Friday Recap 

Michael Steele/Getty Images

Wales climbed to third in the standings after a bruising encounter under the lights at the Principality Stadium, defeating an Irish side that simply wouldn't give up.

After a cagey and close first half, the hosts took control shortly after the second-half restart as George North scored two tries to help open up a nine-point lead.

Ireland immediately responded, and with Johnny Sexton in splendid form, they pinned back Wales with constant attacks.

North continued to cause the Irish problems with powerful wing play, but it was Jamie Roberts' try two minutes from time that settled the contest.

Michael Steele/Getty Images

The ever-reliable boot of Leigh Halfpenny helped the Welsh over the line, just as Ireland had begun to gain momentum in the contest.

Tom Rostance of BBC Sport quoted Wales coach Rob Howley after the battle, who congratulated his team on a hard win:

"

We knew there would be a reaction and against one of the best sides in rugby you have to play like that both with and without the ball.

I'm delighted for the players, they have taken a lot of stick and we beat Ireland emphatically.

George North? When you praise them too much they sit back, if you criticise them too much they go into their shell so it's a fine balance.

It was a great advert for Six Nations rugby.

I'm delighted and proud. Between 68 and 72 minutes was the key, we held Ireland up, had a fortunate penalty and got out of trouble.

"

Former England international Matt Dawson was in awe at the full-time whistle:

The result opens the door for England to win the championship on Saturday, but a shock result for Scotland will throw up a host of differing scenarios. A win would give the Red Rose at least a seven-point margin, rendering their final match at Ireland on March 18 moot.

The English have home advantage in their match, and the Twickenham crowd will be in full voice as coach Eddie Jones sends his men out to claim glory.