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New Zealand hold off Ireland in titanic battle to reach World Cup semi-finals

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The agony goes on. Ireland must wonder what they have to do to break this quarter-final curse, how long to spend as No 1 in the world, how many grand slams to win, how many victories in a row. Instead, let the record state: eight quarter-finals, eight defeats.

So much came to an end. Not just the dream of a World Cup semi-final; not just the career of Johnny Sexton, who wandered the pitch in tears at the end; not just a run of 17 consecutive Test wins, only one shy of the record held by England and, yes, these blessed All Blacks.

And for the All Blacks the record reads: nine quarter-finals, eight wins. How New Zealand have suffered themselves of late, toppled for some time from their perch as the perennial champions of all things rugby union. This may not mean a return to the top for them just yet –although they must feel a semi-final against Argentina is eminently winnable – but that familiar precision, that doggedness in defence, that nose for victory has been regained.

 

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youreavinalaff Platinum Member

youreavinalaff

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This world cup was spoiled before it even started.

 

The seedings and groups were made far too early.

 

Ireland v New Zealand quarter final should not have been allowed to happen. Neither should France v South Africa.

 

To have, potentially, England and Argentina in the semi final whilst Ireland and France or South Africa out at quarter final stage is ridiculous.

 

All that coming from me, an Englishman.

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xylophone Diamond Member

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It was a great game of rugby which reminded me of the games of old, and this one didn't have too much in the way of referee interference, because he did let the play run wherever possible.

 

The fact that the All Blacks were down to 14 men on two occasions makes this win for them even more special because they hung on and battled away regardless of them being a man short.

 

Several of the players had been "bad mouthed" by the NZ press in recent times, but all of them gave everything they had and it all came right at the end.

 

Well done the ABs.

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richard_smith237 Star Member

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1 hour ago, youreavinalaff said:

This world cup was spoiled before it even started.

 

The seedings and groups were made far too early.

 

Ireland v New Zealand quarter final should not have been allowed to happen. Neither should France v South Africa.

 

To have, potentially, England and Argentina in the semi final whilst Ireland and France or South Africa out at quarter final stage is ridiculous.

 

All that coming from me, an Englishman.

Agreed...   there was no need to set the groups so early...   The same could be achieved setting the groups just a year prior to the event based on rankings at that time. 

 

This WC has been favourable to an under-performing English side....   I just hope they can reignite the magic they found against the Puma's in their first game. 

 

 

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