Despite a committed performance, there were no miracles at tonight’s showdown between Ireland and New Zealand at the Aviva Stadium, with the All Blacks quickly overturning a brief Irish first half lead to eventually run out comfortable winners by 20 points.
Dan Carter was the star man on the night, with four penalties and three conversions culminating in 18 points, a figure which puts Carter firmly in position to achieve the world test points-scoring record against Wales next weekend.
Ireland managed a fleeting 13-9 lead after Stephen Ferris’ first international try and Johnny Sexton conversion but the All Blacks ultimately found a second gear, particularly after the interval. Ireland’s scores were two Jonathan Sexton penalties and the aforementioned Ferris and Sexton try and conversion.
Although you can expect much bleating in the national press of how ‘Brave Ireland’ were bravely beaten in the brave Aviva Stadium tomorrow, in reality, a clinical New Zealand had little trouble in assuring a 23rd win over Ireland.
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