Watch: Highlights of Jordie Barretts first test start
It's pretty impressive to get your first test start for the All Blacks at the tender age of twenty, but what's even more impressive is when you manage to assist a try and then score one yourself; all within the red hot atmosphere of playing the British and Irish Lions in Eden Park.
As first starts go, it's right up there but undoubtedly Jordie Barrett will have mixed emotions following yesterdays game. On an individual level it was a fantastic achievement, while as a collective the All Blacks failed to beat the British and Irish Lions for the first time since 1971.
Perhaps his tally could have possibly been higher had he taken over the kicking duties from his older brother Beauden, who probably won't have mixed emotions in relation to the tour, having been off form with the boot in both the second and third test.
Whether it cost the All Blacks the series is a matter of speculation, but with a drawn series every missed opportunity will be scrutinised. However Steve Hansen was quick to jump to his tens defense, citing his kicking percentages, "when you look at the stats going into the Test match, Farrell was 71 and Beaudy was 81. Stats mean nothing, it's on the day that you've got to kick the goals."
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The New Zealand performance in the return fixture in 2016 was filthy. A lot of Irish supporters were pretty shocked by it, viewed it as de facto cheating just to avoid another defeat.
Also shocked by the abuse to Ireland, captain, vice-captain and spectators after the full time whistle in Paris defeat, last match.
Sledging is sledging, but that happens during the game and targetting spectators should be completely out of bounds.
The Irish public used to enjoy these matches, even in defeat. Now they are necessary but unpleasant, because NZ apparently cannot accept or respect successful challengers.
Go to commentsThanks for the analysis Nick, thought provoking as usual. Couple of queries though, in the pic where you've circled Williams bind , I'm pretty sure it shows Stuart's knee on the ground, surely that's a NZ penalty? Also having had the chance to watch it again the All Black scrum seeems to improve after halftime, but before either England or the All Blacks replace their props. Not sure if that was the result of Tuipolutu coming on or some halftime tips. Either way this is only Williams second international season, so he'll be better for the experience.
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