Wales earned only its second home win over the Irish since 1983, but it didn't grab the lead until the 50th minute, when Phillips scored from an illegal quick lineout throw-in.

Ireland flyhalf Jonathan Sexton kicked the ball out on the full, and it was handled by spectators, which immediately ruled out any quick throw-ins. But Wales flanker Sam Warburton grabbed a ball from a ballboy and passed in to a rushing Phillips, who scampered 46 meters along the left touchline, beating Ireland winger Tommy Bowe to the corner.

Scottish touchjudge Peter Allan cleared the try when asked by South African referee Craig Joubert, and the five points were awarded, leaving Ireland fuming.

James Hook's conversion made it 16-13 to Wales, and he added a third penalty for 19-13 with 11 minutes to go.

Ireland should have scored a try as the clock went past 80 minutes, but replacement fullback Paddy Wallace ignored an overlap outside of him, cut inside and was swallowed by the defense. Prop Cian Healy then lost the ball in a tackle from Wales center Jonathan Davies, and Wales celebrated a third straight victory.

Since losing to England 26-19 at home in the tournament opener - its eighth straight test without a win - Wales has beaten Scotland, Italy and now Ireland, and travels to Paris next weekend with an unexpected chance to win the championship.

“It's disappointing when you look back on the England game - we could be four from four,” Hook said. “With three wins in a row, we go to France with confidence.” —  Wales 19 (Mike Phillips try; James Hook 3 penalties, conversion; Leigh Halfpenny penalty), Ireland 13 (Brian O'Driscoll try; Ronan O'Gara 2 penalties, conversion). HT: 9-13.