Classic Clashes Between Ireland & New Zealand in Dublin

Ireland take on the mighty All Blacks at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on Saturday 17th November during the November Internationals.

This game will see the top two ranked teams in world rugby: face off as Six Nations champions Ireland are ranked No.2 while the World champions New Zealand are ranked No.1.

The two sides have faced each other 30 times since their first meeting in 1905 and New Zealand have won 28 of those encounters.

Here three classic clashes between the two nations.

Ireland 7-45 New Zealand – 12 November 2005

On their way to the 2005 Grand Slam, the All Blacks outclassed Ireland in front of packed Lansdowne Road.

Winger Sitiveni Sivivatu scored two tries and Piri Weepu one as the New Zealanders shot to a 25-0 lead at the break.

New Zealand’s dominance continued after the break with Doug Howlett adding two more tries.

Ireland 22–24 New Zealand – 24 November 2013

In 2013, the Irish got the closest in years to beating the All Blacks at home after they led 22-17 deep into the second half. Tries from Conor Murray, Rory Best and Rob Kearney helped Ireland lead 19-0 before Julian Savea replied.

Crusaders centre Ryan Crotty found some space late in the game and crossed the try line. Aaron Cruden, who was playing 10 at the time, made sure of the conversion and the result saw the world champions end 2013 with a perfect 14 victories.

Ireland 9–21 New Zealand – 24 November 2016

Two weeks before this fixture, the Irish shocked the world by beating the All Blacks in Chicago but they couldn't repeat these heroics.

In a brutal Test match, the All Blacks gained revenge as they scored three converted tries, whilst limiting Ireland to only three penalties the entire game.