Ireland had high hopes, New Zealand creeping concerns. In the end, a familiar tale unfolded. This particular Ireland team might not be accustomed to such heavy defeats, but rugby observers of any experience will know well scorelines that read: New Zealand 40-plus, someone else a lot less.
Worse still for Ireland, who must now regroup after this six-try hammering, Johnny Sexton left the field in the first half, the game still in the balance, with a head injury. Given World Rugby’s latest press release and Sexton’s history with concussion, he must observe at least 12 days’ stand-down, so will miss the second Test next weekend.
