Last weekend, New Zealand were able to take a 1-0 series lead against Ireland as they upheld their 28-year unbeaten run at Eden Park with a demolishing performance.
Ireland have never won in New Zealand, and after Saturday’s performance by the All Blacks, the three-time World Cup winners arguably look back to their ruthless best.
Even though Ireland were able to start the game quickly and looked to be on top, their dominance only lasted for around 20 minutes as Andy Farrell’s men were only able to put five points on the board.
At half-time, the tourists were faced with a 23-point deficit, and to rub salt in their wounds, they also lost their captain Johnny Sexton to a head injury sustained during the first period.
The All Blacks remained in control even though Ireland were able to put up some points early in the second half through a well-worked Gary Ringrose score, but the hosts were dominant throughout this bout and the whopping 42-19 scoreline was well deserved.
What made this great performance stand out even more was the fact that the All Blacks camp had been hit by Covid-19 with key playing personnel such as David Havili, Jack Goodhue and Will Jordan all missing out.
All Blacks team news
Due to Sam Whitelock’s delayed onset concussion, Scott Barrett will replace him in the second row with Dalton Papalii receiving the number six jersey.
All Blacks coach Ian Foster said Whitelock’s unavailability was disappointing, and he also sympathised with Tupou Vai’i who has impressed but will miss the second Test in Dunedin due to Covid-19.
"While I was delighted at how we performed and the leadership shown in the first Test match, we will need to really lift and improve in some key areas," said Foster.
"We know the Irish will throw everything at us this week to keep the series alive.
"We've again had challenges this week, but we feel this team has laid a foundation to build on and is desperate to improve against a very determined Irish side."
Ireland team news
Despite criticism from concussion lobby group Progressive Rugby, captain Johnny Sexton has been given the all-clear to play this weekend after passing subsequent stages of the HIA process. The 36-year-old has been named in the starting line-up for the second Test.
Farrell has decided to make only one change to their squad which sees Connacht’s Mack Hansen return to the right-wing in place of Keith Earls.
The Ireland boss said: “Some people are unlucky not to start because they made a good impact off the bench last weekend, but a lot of the lads who were selected last week get an opportunity to go again.”
On Sexton, Farrell added: "The process was passed and he's fit to play. It wasn't concussion and we move on with the rules. The only thing that matters here is Johnny. We always, as medics and coaching staff alike, err on the side of caution first and foremost."
Second Test
Ireland will be looking to make amends in this game and they may try and take some inspiration from their 29-20 victory over New Zealand last November.
But with the All Blacks’ dominant display last time round, you have to say this will be another stern challenge for Ireland.
New Zealand will be looking for a similar outcome under the roof in Dunedin and will be aiming to take a 2-0 lead in the series.
There is no doubting that they will be favourites coming into this game especially after such a statement display last time out, but anything can happen once that whistle blows and Ireland know what it takes to get the better of the All Blacks.
