Ireland Beat All Blacks For First-Ever Time

For the first time in 111 years of trying, Ireland's emerged victorious over the All Blacks.

They've won 40-29 in Chicago, holding off a second half fightback from New Zealand, who trailed 30-8.

Ireland had led 30-8 early in the second-half before New Zealand came storming back into the match with three unanswered tries.

The All Blacks had won 27 of the previous 28 tests against Ireland, with the only blip a draw in 1973.

Some 62,000 fans are in attendance - the largest ever for a rugby match in the USA.

Both sides lost a player to injury, with Ireland flanker Jordi Murphy stretchered off the field and All Blacks second-five Ryan Crotty hobbling off, both with serious-looking leg injuries.

Commentator Nigel Yalden said the Irish were the better team.

Yalden said the Irish were relentless in defence and solid at set piece, whilst being beautifully directed by halfback Conor Murray and first five Jonathan Sexton.

There was only brief periods of what you'd term 'All Blacks rugby', with Yalden believing starting locks Sam Whitelock and Brodie Retallick were dearly missed.

Captain Kieran Read's told Sky Sport, he's disappointed.

He said he doesn't know if they turned up with the right attitude and they weren't physical enough.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has revealed that midfield backs Ryan Crotty and George Moala are likely to out for the rest of the tour with injuries.

The All Blacks' two main southern hemisphere foes have delivered contrasting performances this morning.

The Wallabies have thumped Wales 32-8 in Cardiff, while the Springboks have needed to score two tries in the final 10 minutes to draw 31-all with the Barbarians at Wembley.

via Radio Sport