Damian McKenzie’s 18-point haul and Will Jordan’s try propelled the All Blacks to a 23-13 victory over Ireland, snapping their 19-match winning streak.
(The Post News)- Andy Farrell, Ireland’s head coach, offered no excuses for his team’s defeat, conceding that the best team emerged victorious. The All Blacks’ 23-13 triumph over the Six Nations champions at Lansdowne Road on Friday brought an end to Ireland’s impressive 19-match winning streak.
The Irish, who had been riding high since their last defeat in the Six Nations in 2021, looked somewhat lackluster in a match that failed to live up to the hype surrounding their epic Rugby World Cup quarterfinal clash with the All Blacks last year. On that occasion, New Zealand edged Ireland 28-24 in a thrilling encounter.
However, Friday’s match was a different story altogether. The drizzle that descended upon Dublin seemed to dampen the spirits of the Irish faithful even before kickoff, and the All Blacks’ dominance on the pitch only added to their dismay.
Damian McKenzie was the standout performer for the visitors, accumulating 18 points through his precise kicking and vision. Will Jordan’s try in the second half sealed the deal for the All Blacks, leaving the Irish supporters to trudge away from Lansdowne Road with their tails between their legs.
Farrell’s assessment of the match was candid: “No excuses, the best team won.” He acknowledged that his team had been outplayed in key areas, particularly in the scrum and lineout.
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