Match Report: Ireland 18 – New Zealand 38

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Ireland’s Autumn International series continued yesterday, when they hosted current Tri-Nations champions New Zealand at the Aviva Stadium. It was a fierce battle between the two sides, yet despite a spirited and much improved performance from Ireland, New Zealand continued their winning run to seal a convincing 38 – 18 victory.

The All Blacks have played against Ireland on 23 previous occasions, winning 22 and drawing on just one of those matches. It was therefore no surprise to find Declan Kidney had made 11 changes to his side after the team struggled to dominate their fixture against Samoa the previous weekend.

New Zealand enjoyed early possession and territory as the match got underway and when Ireland’s Cian Healy was penalised seven minutes into the game, Dan Carter opted to put the first points on the board. His kick was on target, giving his side an early lead. Ireland 0 – New Zealand 3.

Four minutes later, Jonathan Sexton repeated Carter’s attempt, with a superb long-distance penalty to equal the scores. Ireland 3 – New Zealand 3.

As both sides continued to trade penalties, Carter stepped up once again on 16 minutes when Tommy Bowe was penalised for . . .

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