**Ireland Rugby: Player Ratings Vs New Zealand 2024**

Tecfai Editorial Team

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Post on Nov 09, 2024

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Ireland Rugby: Player Ratings vs New Zealand 2024 - A Tale of Two Halves

The roar of the Aviva Stadium echoed with a mix of frustration and elation as Ireland battled New Zealand in a thrilling encounter. The final scoreline may have favoured the All Blacks, but the performance by the men in green showcased a team brimming with resilience and ambition. Let's dissect the individual performances with our player ratings, highlighting the highs and lows of this captivating clash.

Backs:

• Hugo Keenan (7/10): Keenan was a constant threat in the air, claiming high balls with confidence and launching counter-attacks. He lacked his usual cutting edge in attack, but his defensive solidity was a cornerstone of Ireland's resistance.

• Mack Hansen (8/10): The flying winger was a whirlwind of pace and purpose, consistently breaching the All Blacks' defensive line. His try in the second half was a moment of pure magic, showcasing his electric footwork and finishing ability.

• Garry Ringrose (6/10): Ringrose was a steady presence in midfield, but lacked the dynamism that usually characterizes his play. He was unable to consistently break the All Blacks' tackles and struggled to find space in the tight exchanges.

• Bundee Aki (6/10): Aki was a powerhouse in the tackle area, but his attacking contributions were limited. He struggled to find the same intensity that he showcased in previous matches, possibly hindered by the physicality of the All Black pack.

• Johnny Sexton (7/10): Sexton was a master of tactical kicking, keeping New Zealand pinned in their own half with his accurate boot. His game management was excellent, directing traffic and orchestrating attacks with his usual aplomb. However, a few errant passes hampered Ireland's attacking fluency.

Forwards:

• Tadhg Furlong (8/10): Furlong was a dominant force in the scrum, providing a solid platform for Ireland's attacks. He was equally impressive in the loose, making crucial tackles and carrying the ball with purpose.

• Dan Sheehan (7/10): Sheehan was energetic and committed, offering a constant threat at the breakdown. He lacked the usual dominance in the lineout, but his impact on the game was undeniable.

• James Ryan (6/10): Ryan was a rock in the lineout, winning crucial ball for Ireland. However, he struggled to exert the same influence in the loose, falling foul of New Zealand's superior physicality.

• Caelan Doris (7/10): Doris was a jack of all trades, providing a steady presence in both attack and defense. His work rate was relentless, covering every inch of the pitch with a tireless commitment to the cause.

• Peter O'Mahony (7/10): O'Mahony led from the front, injecting aggression and urgency into the Irish performance. His leadership was crucial in keeping the team's morale high despite the mounting pressure.

• Josh van der Flier (8/10): Van der Flier was a powerhouse in the back row, a constant threat in both attack and defense. His try in the first half was a highlight of the match, showcasing his relentless work rate and ability to sniff out opportunities.

Substitutes:

• Rob Herring (6/10): Herring provided a strong impact off the bench, adding energy and aggression to the forward pack. He was a capable replacement for Sheehan, ensuring continuity in the lineout.

• Jack Conan (7/10): Conan injected a fresh dose of power into the back row, carrying the ball with authority and disrupting the All Blacks' defensive rhythm. His presence in the final stages proved crucial in pushing Ireland forward.

• Andrew Porter (7/10): Porter provided a strong finish, adding steel to the scrum and dynamism in the loose. He was a valuable addition to the pack, offering a much-needed boost in the final quarter.

Overall:

The Ireland team showcased resilience and a never-say-die attitude, proving that they are a force to be reckoned with. Although the final scoreline reflected a New Zealand victory, Ireland's spirit and commitment were undeniable. This performance served as a reminder of the exciting potential of this team, and the future remains bright for Irish rugby.