New Zealand Ends Ireland's Home Streak with Impressive 23-13 Win in Autumn Nations Series
In a highly anticipated clash at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, New Zealand emerged victorious against Ireland, securing a 23-13 win and ending the host nation's 19-match unbeaten streak on home turf. The All Blacks, led by Will Jordan’s decisive try in the second half, capitalized on Ireland’s uncharacteristic errors to claim the win, leaving Ireland to reflect on a disjointed performance.
The stage had been set for a thrilling encounter, with both teams coming off recent disappointments. Ireland, still haunted by their World Cup quarterfinal loss to New Zealand the previous year, were eager to exact revenge. However, the All Blacks, motivated by their own scars from a 2022 home defeat to Ireland, came into the match with a point to prove. As the game kicked off under the dim lights of a wet Dublin evening, Ireland struggled from the outset. The ball was slippery, the conditions challenging, and the home side couldn’t find their rhythm. Despite the early pressure, it was New Zealand who looked sharper, executing set plays with precision and maintaining control.
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Ireland's attack, often renowned for its fluidity and quick thinking, seemed flat and error-prone. Jack Crowley, filling in for the injured Johnny Sexton, couldn’t pull the strings needed to unlock the All Blacks' defense. The Irish side struggled with handling, missed tackles, and conceded penalties. They only managed to score 10 of their 13 points while New Zealand's Jordie Barrett was in the sin-bin. Despite Josh van der Flier’s try—scored during Barrett’s absence—Ireland's offense faltered as New Zealand slowly took control.
As the match wore on, the All Blacks’ resilience paid off. Damian McKenzie’s boot added crucial points, and Will Jordan’s try, coming with just 10 minutes remaining, sealed the victory. Ireland’s defense, which had been so solid in their recent victories, looked exposed, and the lack of cohesion in attack left them with few options. For the All Blacks, the win marked a significant momentum shift ahead of the remainder of their Autumn tour.
This loss is a bitter pill for Ireland, who had been riding high after a historic 19-match home streak. Head coach Andy Farrell admitted the defeat was a “funny old feeling,” but stressed the need for his team to regroup quickly as they look ahead to their next challenge against Argentina. Ireland’s error-strewn performance, coupled with New Zealand’s clinical execution, will undoubtedly prompt changes in selection and tactics as Farrell aims to avoid further slip-ups in this crucial series. The pressure is now on to address the weaknesses exposed by the All Blacks and get back on track before the Six Nations.
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