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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Eamon Doggett

New Zealand media single out Johnny Sexton for praise after loss to Ireland

The New Zealand media were full of praise for Johnny Sexton's role in Ireland's historic victory in Dunedin.

A 23-12 victory saw Andy Farrell's side level the series at 1-1 and set up a thrilling finale in Wellington.

It is the first time Ireland have beaten the All Black on New Zealand soil, but they have won four of the last seven encounters between the sides.

All Blacks Head Coach Ian Foster was under a lot of pressure prior to the start of this Test series and while an opening 42-19 test victory eased some pressure, another loss to Ireland will increase it once more.

Gregor Paul, writing for the New Zealand Herald, called the performance a 'disaster', and called for change in their setup.

The Herald also took issue with some of the officialing in the match, in particular the decision to award a red card to Angus Ta'avao.

They wrote: "Ta'avao had no intent in the attempted tackle but the way the rules are policed the clash left him at the mercy of the officials and, ultimately, forced the All Blacks to scrap one man short for 50 minutes."

The Otago Daily Times said, "The All Blacks had been thoroughly out-played but were still well in the game at halftime. By the final whistle, though, only Irish eyes were smiling."

Ireland's selection of Johnny Sexton at out-half was a controversial one after his failed HIA1 – an on-field assessment – in Ireland’s defeat last weekend.

But the Leinster man was inspired form against the All Black and Stuff.co.nz signalled him out for special praise in awarding him their man of the match award.

They wrote: "Ireland captain Sexton. Under an injury cloud during the week, the No 10 was composed and clear-headed.

"He celebrates his 37th birthday in a few days. He deserves to have a big one."

Sexton himself said after the win: “Any time you create a little bit of history it means a lot,” said Sexton. “It’s a very, very special day for everyone in the country.

“We talk a lot about making people at home feel very proud of us and it’s right at the top of our lists.

“I’m unbelievably happy with the win. No Irish team has ever done it before and it’s all on the line next week.”

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