Six Nations 2014: England's Mike Brown inspired by Schmeichel

England full-back Mike Brown revealed his spectacular diving catch in the 13-10 Six Nations win over Ireland was inspired by Peter Schmeichel.

The Manchester United fan made the potential try-saving intervention to block Brian O'Driscoll's low kick under heavy pressure in a frantic first half.

Brown says he honed his goalkeeping skills in training drills with Harlequins team-mate Danny Care.

"We just blast balls at each other to see if we can save them," said Brown.

He added that they called the drill 'Schmeichel' after the former Manchester United goalkeeper.

Brown, who was named man of the match for the second successive Six Nations game, added: "I'm the last line of defence. I have to do everything I can to make sure the ball doesn't go behind me because I know we're in a bit of strife if it does."

Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt hailed Brown's feat of athleticism as the game's defensive highlight.

Brown was England's stand-out player in the autumn internationals, but his growing influence in attack has lifted his involvement to a new level.

"Mike brings another string to our bow. attack-wise," said England head coach Stuart Lancaster. "His ability to beat the first defender is exceptional. He did it from minute one against Ireland. Now he's also a bigger attacking threat in the final third."

Lancaster also praised Brown's defensive abilities.

"It's not often you win man-of-the-match two weeks running but he has done it," he said. "His competitiveness is a trademark of his and that is a trait we want in the team."

Lancaster's side can lift the Triple Crown if they see off Wales in round four at Twickenham on 9 March, while the title is a now a four-way fight between England, Wales, Ireland and France.