Ireland are aiming to become the first team to win three successive men’s titles since Italy joined the expanded Six Nations tournament in 2000.
Under interim head coach Simon Easterby, with Andy Farrell preparing to lead the British and Irish Lions in Australia this summer, they produced a fine second-half display to ensure that quest began with a victory.
“If I’m Ireland, I’m probably quite enjoying everyone saying we’re maybe past our peak,” said Barclay. “It was 27-10 realistically, England came away and scored a couple of [late] tries.
“Ireland weren’t at their best either and they won convincingly, that’s the reality.
“They’ve got serious quality coming back in so if you write Ireland off at this stage, do it at your peril.”
Ireland face Scotland away next, and Bowe said: “Murrayfield is a difficult place to go, it’s always really confrontational. If Scotland can get parity up front to unleash the backs they have, they are really dangerous.
“But I’m really excited about this Irish team, particularly their performance in the second half – to weather the storm from England, to be put under the cosh, maybe question themselves at times, and to be able to find a way out.”
