Rugby Extra | Rob Kearney, Matt Williams and Shane Horgan reflect on Ireland's World Cup exit

[@hankgoldenshaft]

As an ABs fan, I know what the Irish are going through. It took us 24 years to win another RWC. We had many great teams who failed. Once the dust settles, you’ll be able to see the achievements of this great Irish side and realize 1 loss does not change that fact.

[@chucklombardo8167]

Thank u for been respectful to Ireland

[@CouncilofOneElectronic]

Congratulations NZ and well played. Apologies for our arrogant pundits, they are not representative of the larger Irish fan base. Hope you guys go all the way you deserve all the credit. 🇮🇪🤝🇳🇿

[@FuturesTrader87]

Go on and win it now AB's. Very respectful and appreciated from Irish fan

[@taintabird23]

Thank you for your respect. Enjoy the rest of the tournament.

[@YallNotWhite_YourPINK]

Actually one lost does change the fact because if you can't win a world cup then everything means squat you muppet 😂

[@takingafence]

Our 07 loss to france was heart breaking. NZ has had some great teams over the years which took us from winning in 1987 to 2011. This is not tge end Ireland, i hope Andy stays in because he is absolute world class! This is just tge start. Love from NZ

[@temokootapuhi4588]

I think as a rugby public too, the NZ supporters have learned to not be so matter of fact with our team, the boys in 07 were told basically get ready for the next week... not from the coaches but the media and the rugby public, the irish support was very matter of fact about their boys going through, yes they were the best team leading up to the w/c, yes they were number 1 but counts for nothing on the day, they will be back and they will be better for it... there's always another world cup

[@jesseferguson4269]

​@@temokootapuhi4588i tend to agree. It must be hard in this day and age for players to ignore the hype in the press or social media. This irish team had alot of hype around them. Kiwis know this all too well as we've mourned plenty of world cup failures over the years.

[@billrichardson1619]

Scots fan here! Wow what a test match! Both teams were excellent. Well done NZ 30+ phases defended at the end without giving away a penalty. Defense was immense. Gutted for Ireland

[@ChaunceyGardner100]

I was at the game. Congrats to NZ, their effort to keep us out at the end was immense. For me, Barret holding up Keleher over the line was the match winning moment, for me. It really felt we would hold on if we scored at that stage. NZ were flagging too in the last 10 mins.

[@bernardbernabe6679]

Ireland chin up, you are in good shape. You just got beaten by an ABS that has a lot to prove. And we got treated to an amazing rugby game. Bravo to both teams!!

[@taintabird23]

Thank you for your respectful comment. Enjoy the rest of the tournament.

[@randomuruk7230]

I mean not really, 9 starters will be gone by 2027 and none of the replacements will have any experience from playing the same squad over and over again.

[@bernardbernabe6679]

I am sure Irish coach is already planning for the next WC and rebuild@@randomuruk7230

[@waynesemmens80]

From an ABs fan your team and coaching setup are an absolute credit to your country Ireland. The manner in which your players and coach have conducted themselves in extremely distressing and painful circumstances shows the absolute class and character of your squad. You should be extremey proud of what this Irish team have achieved over the past couple of years. We as NZ rugby fans understand the heartbreak of unexpected losses at a rwc. But this should not and will not define what is a great Irish team and one of the best rugby teams to grace our beloved rugby fields. Its often in the fields of extreme adversity that the seeds of greatness and success are sown. This Irish team has redifined in many ways how our great game should be played and they have been an absolute joy to watch. Never stop beliving guys because it will happen! Kia kaha and much love to my Irish brothers and sisters.

[@lizzyhanahoe4197]

Thank you so much 💚

[@WillieOHalloran]

While I am literally heartbroken not just for myself but for this wonderful team and staff So very very proud of them and the wonderful memories I have God bless the, all and I just hope they recover soon

[@gordonwong3125]

When i was young Ireland were considered easy beats... moving from easy beats to RWC contenders is a huge win. Keep it up Ireland!!

[@randomuruk7230]

They will never contend again

[@giftgreen3748]

Honestly I never regarded Ireland as a RWC contender, I think Ireland is overrated

[@DrayDrayn]

More like Quarter finals contenders

[@christinaforde4101]

Such haters, Unbelievable.

[@unaagnew6623]

You must admit that the ABs put 50% extra power into the breakdown to counteract Ireland’s speed and skill set. They targeted all our strong points. Joe Smith can take credit. We just got shafted by a superior strategy. We fought bravely and almost managed an upset. ‘Almost’ is a horrible word. I’m glad I lived to see rugby played like this Irish team have played it. Thank you lads. You’ve done us proud.

[@randomuruk7230]

We were literally betting favourites, stop pretending it would of been an upset.

[@Gubbible]

Upset? Ireland were favourites, with 2 yellow cards and a penalty try. Stop dreaming mate.

[@mvp88kefz92]

No upset, Ireland just got beaten by a great All Blacks team on the night. Irish are a great side but just came up short. The All Blacks are just a great rugby team. You can’t underestimate us. Next time Ireland. Up the All Blacks, another tough test next weekend against a very good Argentina side can’t get complacent now but we will enjoy this victory over Ireland 🇳🇿🖤

[@mvp88kefz92]

@@Gubbiblehahaha my thoughts too. We were the underdogs in this game playing the number 1 ranked team in the world. Humble pie was served 😂

[@randomuruk7230]

@@mvp88kefz92 I'm Irish and even I'm sick of this nonsense, all the bandwagoners see is "New Zealand" and just assume we're meant to lose. Part of the reason why is because people keep talking like this whenever we lose.

[@laurenceeraio1319]

Being number one and remaining number one are two different things completely... its a sobering lesson everyone must learn 😢

[@randomuruk7230]

They remained number 1 for the 4th longest streak in history, if anything the only lesson here is being number 1 means nothing.

[@DM-rp9ik]

Only a year and a half the longest anyone has been there outside New Zealand and South Africa. We went 2/2 against South Africa just couldn't go 3/3 against New Zealand no shame in that I mean who has beaten them 3 times in a row.

[@randomuruk7230]

@@DM-rp9ik South Africa and Australia have done it a few times.

[@DM-rp9ik]

@@randomuruk7230 Yes South Africa in 2009 and 1976 Australia in 2001 rare enough we just have to get better

[@randomuruk7230]

@@DM-rp9ik But we won't, we will lose 9 players by 2027 and none of the replacements will have any WC experience because of how we handled the group stage.

[@jpfowlds5921]

1 year ago today 😂 its been amazing watching these guys cry

[@frankharris9601]

Im an ABs fan but Andy Farell is a legend awesome coach great man love him

[@raykarena4595]

As a Kiwi I rate Andy he has shown a lot of class after this loss. .

[@bernieflynn4803]

Kiwis know how you feel -1999, 2007 we thought we were unbeatable . Taught the public realised that winning a WC is HARD. There are no guarantees.

[@tempershot6311]

95 and 2003 also. No fairy tales in world cups unfortunately.

[@michaelmarama-de4gx]

Bullshit boy I was born in 2008 in Whangarei and wouldnt have a clue what your on about.................. BOY

[@RottingYoda]

Ireland never thought we were unbeatable. We just thought we were good enough to win. There's a big difference. I don't know where this narrative is coming from, NZ media must have had a field day that Ireland "needed to be humbled".

[@vincenthay2206]

​@@RottingYodaif you listen to this exact panel they didnt even rate the ABs as contenders over the past few weeks. Ireland have been humbled but they will come back stronger with more understanding of what it takes to win. No doubt they will be better for this experience.

[@RottingYoda]

@@vincenthay2206 Of course they didn't big them up. They got smashed by SA in a test and then France smashed them. Logically you wouldn't. With all due respect I don't think you're understanding what humble means. Nowhere in the media or the team ever said,'we're going to smash NZ, they're thrash'. They said we were favourites. Pundits agreed based on form. Even the book makers in NZ agreed.

[@taurangatalk207]

There is no logic to explain why the winners (Ireland and France) lost to the losers (NZ and Springbok) of the pool play. Ireland played their hearts out, gave it their all, but on the night came up against a team that was one roll of the dice better on the scoreboard. There seems to be almost universal acceptance that this game has established a new benchmark for how the game should be played and that's a tribute to everyone at the Stade.

[@thesaint8400]

Damn right. As far as I'm concerned, there were 4 equally good teams there and only 1 can win

[@therandomraving7490]

The logic is that very rarely will ABs or RSA play poorly twice in a row against top tier teams. Even as a kiwi, I dont rate our current ABs team as being the dominant force we usually are. But you can never count them out either.. no matter how bad they have performed recently. On their day.. the ABs and RSA can beat anyone. The only other team that I put in that group is France. Ireland are not far behind though. Looking forward to a future of those 4 teams dominating world rugby.

[@citedcanvas85]

Never underestimate any AB side or Bok side. They have the championships under the belt already. It felt like a final for both matches. Its such a shame it happens in a quarterfinal game.

[@riyaadrhoda3990]

As a neutral one felt that this was the time for Ireland to go all the way. An excellent team. Just one mistake in hindsight as Matt pointed out was playing your first team every week. They looked out on their feet in the last 20 minutes.

[@gysdewet6060]

They where tired

[@luatala8008]

No depth

[@Kerry-uu6rk]

OH The day after Ive been there many times lads so many WC AB let downs - gosh it hurts yes Rob- it feels sickening depressing - I remember after the French loss I drove out to St Arnaud in the Nelson Lakes it was a gloomy cold dark day nothing was open I came back home and cuddled my wife all afternoon - stay close to those who understand and love you Reflect on what this Irish team have layed for others to build on and they most certainly will - its all about building legacys and success stories layer upon layer Just make sure the monkey on the back doesnt become a guerrilla❤

[@randomuruk7230]

The legacy is an 8th consecutive quarter final exit.

[@waynerockman1242]

Im afraid that monkey will haunt them for ages. The hurt will take a very long time to dissipate. Sometimes psycologically the team could be damaged. Case un point just look at the proteas cricketers after that 1 loss to Australia. To sugarcoat what happened i must say ' you fooling yourself. Face up, man up gentlemen. All you pundits were looking at and saying ' ye Ireland are no 1, blah blah blah......including The Matt.

[@Kerry-uu6rk]

@@randomuruk7230 And 8th Quarter Final Appearance - thats the playoffs - NZ waited 24 years before our second Title - good things take time - nothing is given - history will be kind to Ireland - it will remember a draw that should have had them as semi Finalists - and thats not sour grapes its reality you were rightly the Worlds number 1 ranked team and deserved that semi final positioning Now pick yourself up and come back stronger and better - Ireland are here to stay - World Rugby is in a much better place with them on board - we all have to now worry about Ireland

[@Kerry-uu6rk]

@@waynerockman1242 Are you referring to the tied 50 over ODI World Cup Final - I consider that result EVEN SA shared that Title and it doesnt matter what the record books say nobody won anyway SA reached the Final that was a milestone in itself - NZ tied with England 3 years ago - it doesnt matter what the officials think or do - the players and fans know the back story - Ireland will regroup just as NZ has - but the hurt will stay until they started rebuilding the 6 Nations will do that

[@randomuruk7230]

@@Kerry-uu6rk In a sport where about 20 countries get funding we place top 8 8 times and fail twice.

[@Powdaburn]

Being rated #1 means nothing going into the world cup. NZ knows that better than anyone

[@St_AngusYoung]

Difference is is that New Zealand have lifted the Webb Ellis Cup 3 times. Ireland never have and never will.

[@citedcanvas85]

I hope Andy stays on with ireland, he has done some great things with this team. He is capable of taking them to the next level. He is that good of a coach.

[@gysdewet6060]

Did he win a world cup?

[@jamesplumb4517]

England fan; what a great game... many teams would have folded down 13 so early, but not these guys. Just gutted that you didn't make it over the line. NZ played arguably their best game in a few years, and they needed every second of it too. No shame losing that game. Ireland Rugby is in a good place. Keep bringing us that joy. Andy Farrell is a class act.

[@mickser101]

The Irish media and the majority of Irish fans went overboard at this WC. The talk all week of "we'll win the tournament if we beat NZ" "This is the worst NZ team in years" absolute nonsense. Anybody who has watched Rugby for more than 2 years knew NZ would beat us. The draw was made in Dec 2020 and the writing was on the wall back then with a QF exit to AllBlacks.

[@kh7431]

Shane loves a bit of cadence

[@RushNZ_]

Kearny who’s in who’s head now😂😂😂😂

[@klaus1292]

😂😂😂😂

[@jtfromsomewhere]

What is with these media pundits and people that have actually played rugby saying a team was not at there best. Give some credit to the opposing team putting pressure on them.

[@BruceHeller24]

Well done Andy and team. Good luck to the ABs going forward in the tournament

[@mvp88kefz92]

Thanks dude we need it 🇳🇿🖤 Well done to the Irish, still a great rugby team, still the best really. Just not their World Cup 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@neilbe7118]

I can't help but feel our big chance is gone

[@adamoshea2793]

Ya best Ireland team ever and still can’t past the quarters 😭😭

[@frakia666]

​@@adamoshea2793there is always the option of hiring more kiwis players

[@RazorMouth]

​@@adamoshea2793 You sound like you're happy about it? Are you Irish?

[@adamoshea2793]

@@RazorMouth no I am Irish just disappointed we can’t win a quarter

[@pauldavies7251]

​@@RazorMouthI am & i think its hilarious 😂

[@msjadelum]

If most of us Kiwis are honest, we felt we would lose this game based on Irelands past two years vs ours. We are well aware that the ABs have the skill to beat anyone at anytime but we weren’t sure of their mental state under Foster. He survived by adding Schmidt and Ryan and that is the reason they turned a corner. What Ireland is experiencing now is what we have been through more than once at World Cups where we were number one and then did not win the cup. One game doesn’t define them so remember that and we can only hope someone like England who absolutely do not deserve to be World Champs have a couple of good games and end up being crowned Champs for 4 years. That is the negative of this tournament where average teams get a massive title that they do not necessarily deserve.

[@taintabird23]

Thank you for your respectful comment. Enjoy the rest of the tournament.

[@YallNotWhite_YourPINK]

Blah blah blah get that Irish meat out of your throat mate 😂

[@randomuruk7230]

The difference is no one cares about Rugby in Ireland and this was an opportunity to change that, oh well. "One game doesn’t define them" I mean it literally does, regardless of the NZ series, the grandslam and the streak this is all that will be remembered. The rest doesn't matter.

[@rosselliot8971]

Agreed. I was worried about the AB's culture problem, which is really an NZRFU culture problem, which has percolated into the team over the last couple of years, combined with Foster's style, which I'm not a fan of, I though we would struggle despite our skill levels. In the end, it was deep desire that got us there.

[@joshsmith7999]

Judging by the amount of Irish supporters at their games I think there must be a few people in Ireland who are interested in rugby Seems like the Irish have embraced rugby much more than Australia where the sporting dynamics are quite possibly similar 🤔

[@tomnewell8886]

Face facts we finished the game was a 36 and 38 year old at 9 and 10.....sexton was gassed but clearly the bench wasnt strong enough to replace him. Things like kicking and line outs were bad and simply put if you cant make it count when the opposition is down to 14 players for 20 mins then u have nobody to blame

[@MeanAzz_13]

I was watching O'Mahoney last 10 mins and he was physically gone!

[@hopandsolo]

What's age got to do with it? A 37 yo had marathon world record Sexton has been better than ever.

[@jansmit327]

As a Springbok fan...I've always loved Irish Rugby because of your grit and passion... but I have been bitterly disappointed in the behaviour of some Irish fans. The arrogance and disdain shown by them towards nations like NZ and SA that have actually won a World Cup (both 3) and actually made it to a semi final playoff has been astounding to me.. never expected it. Good luck in the future World Cup tournaments.. but please show more respect and humility

[@PB22559]

Another bok troll. Your fans were the cocky ones going into the Ireland game, saying you'd win it easy with your bomb/nuke squad. Most Irish fans thought yesterdays game was too close to call.

[@markkeogh2190]

I think you guys just feel entitled to some kind of special treatment. If irish fans don’t believe then what’s the point and if they do believe it’s called arrogance by the top hierarchy of SA and NZ Fans. That’s the Arrogance.

[@ronaldobrien6870]

They lost by four points and finished with an attack lasting five minutes and over 30 phases (against the ABs!). 'Arrogance' would have been fans who had talked the talk and then saw their team lose by 20-30 points,

[@PB22559]

@@markkeogh2190 The saffa fans are the most arrogant of all. They think they've already beaten France. Edit. France score the first try in the 2nd min of the game. Allez les Bleus.

[@jansmit327]

Thank you for proving my point with your arrogant and rude reply

[@Hrdkse01]

I believe Ireland left it all out there on the paddock that day, However I believe fitness played a big part in this game with speed of ball with ball in play. Every aspect of the game was displayed by both teams where the finest margins could have resulted in a different outcome. Thankyou Ireland.🎉🎉

[@Open-6]

The reality is POM called Sam Cane a shit man’s Richie McCaw. And Sam Cane got revenge. He both played out of his skin and led well.

[@cioran1754]

Now that was arrogant

[@andrewashmore8000]

Good point , better off to just say nothing.

[@bemusedpurse]

Well he’s a shit talking loser now isn’t he? 4 more years and he won’t be there 😂

[@taintabird23]

Players sledge each other all the time. I'm sure it was water off a ducks back to Sam Cane.

[@klaus1292]

Also Sam Cane bulked up more and got even leaner, he came back to make a statement and he did.

[@iwiterangi5711]

Ireland's prep was fine. Excellent team with the ability to conquer all. The hungriest team won is all.

[@dean0195]

You learn from your failures. ABs had to learn from 24 years of World Cup failures and we changed the way we prepared. World Cup games are different to out of cycle games. You almost need two teams worth of test quality depth and mental fortitude for knock out rugby. So you develop those players during the years leading up to it. Hopefully Ireland learns this and approaches the next World Cup with an approach to get them to a final.

[@makatawhs]

Ireland are class… 1 game doesn’t define your legacy. Heads up lads. We know well and truly how you feel after being favourites most RWCs and falling short multiple times. Regardless of England & Argentina, we know the top 4 includes Ireland. Long May you stay there! From a Kiwi. Btw Fun fact, NZ had 0 handling errors all game. Zero.

[@SDMotorsports]

We hyped them and ourselves up too much

[@markkeogh2190]

Yeah better off bowing our heads and accepting our role as also rans. Nonsense. It’s sport and entertainment. Pain and joy are part of it. If you want to play it safe and have no expectations that’s fine but don’t blame the rest of us for putting faith in the team.

[@taintabird23]

Yeah, like RWC titles are won by teams that don't believe in themselves. Do South Africans sound humble to you or New Zealanders?

[@sljones9103]

​@@taintabird23Ireland have never come close to winning a world cup and never will

[@taintabird23]

@@sljones9103 I remember people like you making similar claims about Ireland beating NZ about 10 years ago. Famous last words.

[@davidwalker4061]

Im South African so my opinion is neutral, Ireland played at 100%, the ABs played at 101%! Really don't think Ireland were sub-maximal, they played exceptional, Shane hit the nail on the head, the ABs constricted the game disallowing what Ireland do best! Ireland has nothing to be ashamed of and they should hold their heads high, its an amazing game but I think what this team did was light the spark for a new era in Irish rugby... Only great things to come!

[@therandomraving7490]

Thanks for the honest critique. I thought I was going crazy with so many people saying Ireland played bad. They didnt play bad at all. The ABs were just tactically better and had a little more in the tank at the end. Great game.

[@davidwalker4061]

@therandomraving7490 the ABs have a way of finding those cracks in the armour no matter how strong the team is, it's just what they do. The game was on the edge of a knife and could have swung both ways. If you look at us the Springboks statistically we have lost the most matches to the ABs then any other team we have played. What was great about this Irish team was the message! That you guys to can not only compete against the best but you can also be the best. That message will inspired the boys and girls back in your country to pick up a rugby ball and join their local rugby club!

[@Hamish-g7m]

Take the points!! Big lesion! The arrogance to go to touch in the beginning of a WCQF.

[@richohastings]

I'm kind of repeating what's been said so for what its worth from one massive ABs fan to all Ireland fans... If most of us Kiwis are honest, we felt we would lose this game based on Irelands past two years vs ours. We are well aware that the ABs have the skill to beat anyone at anytime, but we weren’t sure of their mental state under Foster. He survived by adding Schmidt and Ryan and that is a massive reason they turned a corner. What Ireland is experiencing now is what we have been through more than once at World Cups most notably in 2007. We didn't change our coach and our captain on that fateful day went onto World Cup glory not once but twice. Ireland, we feel for you and respect the positive way you play. Don't give up!

[@waynepirihi9769]

I’m honest kiwi I didn’t think we’d lose I thought we’d win by +10

[@therandomraving7490]

Im an honest kiwi and I only thought a red card (or multiple yellows) would lose us the game. Keeping 15 on the field always makes us a hard team to beat. Only RSA and France have the ability to beat us when we play our best.

[@Mysterx1440]

I'm a Kiwi who thought we would win and you need to give Foster his due credit. He's the head coach, he got this team to peak now instead of last year, not Joe or Jason

[@hdg0pc70]

Mental skills. That's what the All Black's had to do, after 03, and 07. The stress, when they came up against a team which their game plan didn't work. Ritchie McCaw said as much.

[@trophyhunternightwish82]

8 losses in 8 Qf's that's gotta hurt

[@mrheck5311]

Nobody died.

[@MeanAzz_13]

Oh they're hurting alright 👋😂

[@matbrooks7678]

@@mrheck5311Irish rugby just did

[@huslazonly]

To not know the feeling of never progressing beyond the quarter finals in 8 attempts... it's going to hurt for some time.

[@mrheck5311]

@@huslazonly rugby isn't a religion in ireland. We have other more popular sports. When Ireland get knock out there isn't a spike in domestic violence like there is in NZ

[@Slipperygecko390]

NZ played South Africa and Then Ireland two weeks later, got a lot of key injuries in the SA game.

[@dalpao]

Keeping Andy Farrell will be key. The ABs had the same issue and retained Ted. Quarter and Semi playoffs are always harder. Ireland will be back.

[@spencerhowell9094]

Ireland 🇮🇪 have very good young players coming through . Surprised and shocked they didn’t make it through

[@eduardmurison9358]

Watching matt Williams cry, brings me so much joy. 🤣

[@jonesyjones7626]

Ireland ate at the top of the rankings fir a reason. However, that doesn’t mean you get everything right all the time. I thought Sexton faded in the last 15 minutes and needed to be changed. Did sentimentality keep him on the pitch?

[@hannahzhang7849]

Ireland didn’t play the best as you guys commented because ABs put huge pressure and great defence out, didn’t they?

[@randomuruk7230]

That wasn't causing terrible decision making, terrible fumbles with no NZ players within 20 meters, Andrew Porter giving away 2 completely unnecessary penalties early in the game or Keenan booting possesion away everytime he's alone on the wing. There were unforced errors and forced errors, it was the unforced ones that lost Ireland the game.

[@HeeniKeke]

Every team in the world who loses a game are able to see reasons such as errors, ref calls, injuries etc. It’s best to start remembering this. Fact is ABs we’re better on the day

[@randomuruk7230]

@@HeeniKeke Are you? Or are we just shit when it matters?

[@randomuruk7230]

@@HeeniKeke The issue with that is we can literally compare the unforced errors of that game to every single other previous games and you'll find the disparity in frequency undismisable.

[@HeeniKeke]

@@randomuruk7230 That’s fair comment. ABs have areas too where we let ourselves down too. It boils down to coaching and discipline, plus carrying burdens and weights of expectations being number 1 ranked and favourites. ABs learned to show mighty respect to every team they faced and not to believe a win was automatic. I don’t believe any Irish fans can say IRE didn’t play their best when ABs couldn’t break through Irish defence in beginning. Give your team more credit…the result could’ve gone either way

[@MrAhuapai]

Ireland will be back. The system is in place and there are tremendous young players coming through. I expect Ireland to take the harsh lessons from this game and make the semifinals next RWC. No luck of the draw here getting NZ in the QFs who were under the pump and needed to prove a point. Like France Ireland could of faces Wales Fiji England or Argentina instead of SA/NZ and then they surely would of got the monkey off the back. Ireland are a quality side and they will be back stronger next time.

[@JuanGomez-kc5ow]

No se, a Irlanda parece que le gusta mostrarse cono una selección que no aguanta la presión, por algo no pasan de cuartos y el sorteo es una escusa ya que a Argentina en 2007 le toco Sudáfrica y si le tocaba Francia en ese año lo mas seguro que llegaba a la final y Irlanda ya jugo contra Argentina en eliminación directa y como le fue... y la pintaban con un candidato a ganar el WR, cuando no tienen la fortaleza mental para ganarla.

[@MeiA-h9r]

The Irish’a arrogance and ignorance to learn from 2007 Springboks & 2015 All Blacks teams with regards to player rotation and peaking at the right time was their downfall. This is must be a deeper reason as to why they still cannot make past the QF of a Rugby World Cup.

[@axxey]

As a Kiwi i wouldn't have felt that bad if Ireland won at the end of those 37 phases. Would have been complete justice if Aaron Smith aimlessly kicking the ball away for no reason lost NZ the game. I thought Ireland was the best team overall in the tournament but there's such small margins in the top teams, a few individuals having blinders or a few having poor games can impact everything. Ireland played their worst rugby while they were a man up against 14 players, kicking possession away poorly or infringing rather than building pressure.

[@spongybone4071]

You're absolutely right

[@pj1471]

I agree with Shane. The management cannot be criticised for their approach. Is this how conspiracy theories start, banging on about something that is speculation. Sport is often down to many small margins especially at this incredible level of performance.

[@michaelmulholland9072]

I think many are being unduly harsh on Ireland. Both teams played excellent. Those small margins are normally associated with how the officials see things. Tough loss, but come on, it's not the end of the world. Fantastic game.

[@Innerlight320]

So now Tonga are dangerous because of four Allblacks . Thanks mate 😂😂😂

[@oneday458]

4 ex-All Blacks.

[@isaacnewton7940]

So Abs had no chance due to not being battle hardened because of the easier pool, now the poo was easy they were more rested? Make up ya mind lol

[@jasonclark1682]

Feel for the Irish. Us kiwis have been there and felt our share of heartache when we have been number 1 and expected to win but didn’t. I do have to say though, maybe everyone should stop looking at reasons they lost. They got beaten by a better team on the day. That’s knock out footy. They didn’t play to their potential because the ABs didn’t let them. Looking forward to the next time we play!

[@k.o.t.h]

ABs key to victory was the impact off the bench n the quality game time they had in the pools compared to Ireland who mostly stuck to their best starting 15. Wasn't a question of fatigue but more lack of decent WC23 game experience imo. ABs just had the better bench to close out the game.

[@Lukee178]

All black fan here, ireland are a great outfit and there time will come! in 2007 we had a great side and won everything on offer but got knocked out of the world cup. The ABs reviewed everything and came back and won in 2011 and 2015.

[@MikeBiagio-du6lp]

In any other world cup the game against the All Blacks would have been a final or a semifinal. It's only because WR couldn't organise a piss up in a brewery that it was the quarters. Bear in mind that while Ireland has done massively well in terms of developing nursery structures and coaching, that only puts them on par with the top teams, not above. On the day the bounce of a ball and a single mistake could be the match. Such is top tier rugby. I also think the Irish team were overplayed. This could have been because of the pool of death.

[@johnnyj-t2e]

blah , blah , blah. who cares princess your team of mercenaries still lost you entitled muppet. why was this qf better than france v sa ??? you want to win the world cup , then go beat everyone put in front of you instead crying like babies when you get the draw you didn't want ;-)

[@LUAPIGNAR]

37 phases at the end told the story.

[@southernfriedkiwi7726]

Matt does have a point. Ireland were obviously faster and more surgical against Scotland. I said on another post after that match, that if Ireland can duplicate that accuracy and intensity against NZ then they would win. NZ hasn't looked that hungry or accurate before this match, especially at the breakdown. NZ upped their game 30% and Ireland dropped 20% from their previous game. The fact that NZ did it with 14 players for 20 minutes, was even more impressive.

[@okanui]

at this stage of the cup it is totally the top 2 inches that win the games. both NZ & SA have been through this before, many times over the years. how many years were NZ No1 team and yet there was a long time between drinks?

[@p.stanaway8786]

what a cop out. you played your best against a team that had the game to beat you. that attack was always threatening but the abs pressured the runners not sexton as heavily limiting his options. the abs turnovers, scrum dominance, lineout sharpness, and breakdown agression all limited irelands game. no matter how great you've been its this mentality that holds ireland back, the fact Kearney feels so strongly it was fatigue and he's an ex player shows the mentality

[@Camcolito]

They played like shit.

[@p.stanaway8786]

No hate to the Irish team or her people. This comment is aimed at pundits like this undermining the abs victory

[@itachitsukuyomidcuo9853]

@@p.stanaway8786 I can tell you they did not play their best. If they did they would have beaten us. Plain and simple. Exactly what needed to happen for us to win happened. We played out of our skin and they were far from their best. Regardless we did what we have become very good at. Doing enough to reach WC finals

[@p.stanaway8786]

@@itachitsukuyomidcuo9853 you play what the opposition allows. We have some of the best attacking threats yet the world in the last few years has managed to nullify that.

[@itachitsukuyomidcuo9853]

@@p.stanaway8786 At one point Ireland didn't even jump to gather their own lineout. Sexton missing a kick he would get 9 times out of ten. Yes we made some things more difficult for them but if you watched that game and think that was anything other than their worst performance at this world cup (still not a 'bad' performance) then I don't know what Ireland team you've been watching. Two of our tries were the softest tries I've seen that Ireland team cough up (outside of the Scotland game when it was already over)

[@deadnicedave]

Ireland i think lost because of line out battle, gave up so much quality ball from that phase of the game, and NZ smothered the midfield and prevented the quick inside ball beloved of Sexton so therefore Ireland had to start chasing the game wide. Also very rarely do you see Ireland concede a try from phase one ball in there own half. Fine margins.

[@atapene]

To be very clear and not to gaslight, kearny didn't say they had to play high 90's % to win. He said if they turned up with only 90% they would still win.

[@AliKay3011]

Ireland forgot this one crucial thing. THEY WERE THE PRIZE! When NZ said they played this as their final they weren't lying. This AB side would be forgiven in NZ if they didn't win the Cup because better AB sides of past years also failed. But what this AB side did that no other AB side had done in history was losing a test series to Ireland in NZ and are hurt about it. The nation reminded them of it at every opportunity. So the team is on a recovery mission to restore the jersey they felt they had desecrated. I warned people about it before the tournament that this will make NZ a very dangerous opponent for Ireland should they meet. I wasn't even saying that they would beat Ireland but was laughed out of town. Ireland is still a great side and should be proud of what they've achieved in the last 4 years.

[@heyjoe5878]

Well put. The Abs were on a redeeming mission

[@taintabird23]

Congratulations. You are clearly delighted.

[@randomuruk7230]

They achieved nothing clearly

[@joewhelan5018]

Ireland not playing their best game had New Zealand on their knees and the Kelleher maul not downed? WTF

[@PB22559]

Maybe, I need to watch it back but I thought Kelleher left the maul slightly early. They looked like they had the momentum to maul it over.

[@Samuel-bu7xr]

The turnover out the side of the ruck that lead to 70m gain for Ireland. The light penalty for pulling Barrett down as he went for the ball in the air… Ireland were lucky in these calls. That they couldn’t turn to a b plan, that they couldn’t beat a focused and motivated AB’s team who played 25% of the match a man down, only speaks to the pressure the AB’s put Ireland under. Immense defence and presence at the breakdown defined this game. I couldn’t disagree with your analysis more.

[@randomuruk7230]

They didn't play their best

[@jesseferguson4269]

As a kiwi we can feel and relate to the pain Ireland will be going through right now. You were far more deserving of a quarter final exit..far more so than any previous edition of the RWC. Irish club and international rugby is in an incredible place to build for greater things in the near future and i have no doubt that the titanic rivalry between our two countries will continue for many years to come.

[@PrimalBlue-l6o]

To quote Sunny Bill when interviewed after the England loss in 2019 when people in Japan were affected by tragedy...."its just a game, people are suffering with real issues".....you guys will bounce back. One loss does not define you. The world said that this NZ team was the worst ever. Never say never. Heads up lads.

[@bernieob9577]

I think definitely we should have won like every other irish person, but we have an amazing rugby team we will lift that cup some day .Jonathan Sexton you are a legend thank you 😊 also Keith Earls you are amazing. Best of luck in the future ❤ I hope andy farrell sticks with Ireland.

[@nicholasslee8903]

Ireland v NZ, what a game until the 80th minute. Respect for both teams. The 2023 World Cup will be weaker for the fact Ireland will not be crowned champions in 2023. France going out as well means the number one and two teams in the rankings have been beaten (unfortunately). I hope Ireland (France/England/Scotland/Wales/Italy) rebuild and come back stronger and continue to challenge our friends in the Southern Hemisphere.

[@jpfowlds5921]

The wc got stronger after the NH frauds left lol. The teams to make it to semis have always been sa, nz and eng + somebody like Arg, Wales and France whi have all made semi finals before

[@St_AngusYoung]

Ireland bottled it yet again. They’ll never win the RWC.

[@davidradovanovich8428]

Hearing Andy Farrell talking about what ifs. The bounce of the ball into Sheehans hands come on how many times had that been a tactic. The all blacks have exploited the rush defence with the chip all season that’s why it worked

[@weekend_sports]

Ireland we’re never as good as they thought they were. Greatness is built over decades not two years.

[@taintabird23]

You're just relieved we didn't win. Get over yourself.

[@oneday458]

@@taintabird23 But he's right.

[@RayRay-h4q]

Never underestimate the teams who have won the tournament multiple times, they are experienced in those pressure situations, The ABs did it, coming from a bad run into the world cup and losing to France in the opening game, so did the bokke last night, these teams have the ability to come out on top no matter what and unfortunately Ireland and France fell victim to that. I was hoping Fiji could beat England again but hey... Wales had a Intense few final minutes but well played Ireland and France, this has been a wonderful WC so far and Rugby is a beautiful sport, we should be proud of our teams.

[@harrisonduff3661]

When Leinster lost the URC and Champions Cup I had a feeling then that Ireland wouldn't go all the way.

[@davemcgruddy5695]

The problem was that you all had written off the All Blacks. We came with intensity, and wanted to play the game at a speed that you couldn't keep up with, the last 5 mins showed the Irish had run out of ideas of how the break the All Black defense.

[@elkanovitch]

Yeah, Ireland looked knackered by the sixtieth minute. Even had they beaten NZ I wonder if they would've had the gas for a semi and a final. Rotating your players in a lengthy tournament like this is critical. It's a pretty basic thing for Farrell to faff up.

[@taintabird23]

Just because Ireland believed they could win, did not mean you were written off. You cannot defeat NZ unless you believe you can. Ireland fielded a full strength team, showing respect, and even your own bookies in NZ made Ireland slight favourites. In the end, had Jordan Barrett not got his hand under Kelleher ball for a try near the end, we could have been having a different conversation. Congratulations on your win, I hope you enjoy the rest of the tournament. Tone down the arrogance though, its childish.

[@davemcgruddy5695]

Go back and watch all the talk prior to this game by these guys, and then talk to me about arrogance. "we can win if we play at 90%" And tell me that's not arrogance. @@taintabird23 It's not arrogance on my behalf, the All Blacks knew this was their final, and the Irish supporters thought it was a step to the final. I am taking nothing away from your team, they are amazing, more so the blindness of these guys.

[@chucktee8088]

Arrogance was all Irish. Need a box of tissue?

[@kitten6062]

I thought Sexton looked almost unwell, little or no spark. Why wasnt Jack Crowley given a run, fresh legs etc

[@PB22559]

True and you could argue Crowley should've been given more gametime to gel with this side over the last year or so. Look at the other top sides- France, NZ, SA or even England. They all have plenty of good options at 10. The dependence on one player strategy in order for the team to function is far from optimal. You could argue, it was the same thing back when ROG was at the helm for Ireland. Ireland need to stop relying solely on one out half going forward. They'll have to develop 3 quality options just like all the other top sides do.

[@AM-dj1wr]

So glad Johnny never smelt a WC semi. Arrogant, rude, cocky shyte. Gives me soooo much satisfaction.

[@sandilemfeka4658]

Matt should change his name to Katt Williams, WHAT A JOKER😂😂😂😂😂

[@SAnd-pd1ou]

Kearney needs to eat humble pie. His arrogance over last few weeks has been nauseating. Get Quinlan, humble fella

[@conormateer2025]

100% correct ✅

[@TLF1]

Stop #lying Kearneys humble like all them

[@seancondon2817]

@@TLF1 to be fair Kearney,always came across as a bit up himself

[@PB22559]

In fairness to Kearney, when asked who would win the world cup- his answer was France

[@TLF1]

@@seancondon2817 no he didnt thar pure lies. In fact Kearney actually tipped FRANCE to win from start hahaha

[@whtwht]

Over analysis .. on a flip of a coin defeat. Thats top class Rugby. No one is perfect.

[@Sia_Meleni]

What makes the Boks and ABs the Best is they always find a way And the mission doesn't change even with the new guys they know what it means to wear that Jersey. Now with Ireland losing, it will be difficult to motivate them becz they were playing for Saxton and they didn't really have a solid reason why they play. The Boks play for SA people, they play for bringing hope and brightening Lives of people in SA.

[@biggest23]

For all those Irish fans that were bellowing at NZers that the AB's & their fans would be at the airport catching their flights home after this game, I'm picturing this being sung now..... ♫ SHOULDER TO SHOUOULDER BECAUSE WE'RE FLYING BUDGET RYYYANAIR!! ♬

[@taintabird23]

The were probably responding to NZer telling Irish people they were on a plane home. When you are 12 you might understand.

[@itachitsukuyomidcuo9853]

Considering how often NZ under perform at WC's you think you'd be more humble. Were hailed as the best team in the world for around 20 world Cupless years

[@Chris-eq3en]

​@@itachitsukuyomidcuo9853underperform? We have 3 world cups and soon to be a 4th. Ireland have nothing they are useless.

[@biggest23]

@@taintabird23 ….No, just some Irish fans being twonks all on their own, no external input needed.

[@biggest23]

@@itachitsukuyomidcuo9853 ….NZers responding to the unadulterated twattery coming from Irish fans, is not representative of a lack of humility from Kiwis, rather a recognition of the head up own arsery of said paddies.

[@gysdewet6060]

Ireland can play 80% and win the world cup. Lets not forget that statement!

[@ElfordMnyimba-dm8lr]

Ireland played 2 hard against the boks,after effects of the 7/1 split

[@wasteoftimehere]

I know this guy Gary (gary oak the ireland troll) He failed his school exams and was refused entry into college He lives alone with his mom in a council house (I won't say where) He was bullied in school (which is never nice) He is beyond shy (or embarrassed about his looks)and so never had a girlfriend The reason why he trolls about Ireland is because the girl he fancied rejected him in school and she was Irish Scorn not Gary's Simplicity but rather try to love him all the more As a troll,he is ineffective as he lacks wit (he said Scotland would demolish Ireland proving that the poor chap knows nothing about sport) His mother was in tears recently telling me how he refuses to leave his room or get offline (the only time he leaves the house is to collect his dole and buy chips and coke)

[@whtwht]

Asking him about Regrets over a game like thst. Jheeeeeez

[@nicgrace8639]

In their pre game build up. These guys had Ireland winning the game before it was played. Never write off the Men in Black. Commiserations to Ireland though. We (NZ) know the feeling.

[@siphomakeleni1649]

Thank you for that Zombie song, hella of a song

[@Ger1010]

Shane horgan is a great speaker

[@LegendRed7]

Devastated what a wasted opportunity proud of the lads just ran out of steam.

[@clemfandango619]

The host doesn't why we'd want to watch this? Don't be so hard on yourself. Its terrific stuff.

[@prac2]

Young Irish team. They will be back

[@nogamenolife705]

I think Sexton was such a big personality for so long that it might not have helped the level of individual responsibility for everyone else. I hope it leads to a more free spirited atmosphere and some of the younger guys can express themselves more freely on the pitch. We need to stop relying on older players and have a real 30 man squad with youth and new ideas. Say what you like but Irelands supposed attacking game was build heavily around Sexton and wraparound plays. We need some real speed and creativity in the backs too. The seem to be picked more for good defence and left boots.

[@tbd407]

Being favored or a 1 seed is not a position Irish people wear like a glove. That's more for places like Germany and the U.S. (i don't mean in rugby obviously, i mean in general). New Zealand also were able to challenge their own underdog energy against us. Nothing to be ashamed of from Ireland's standpoint, it's knockout rugby and the ABs were very disruptive and crafty. ABs actually have the best of both worlds - they have the historical aura of being dominant in the past and and then if they can't leverage that, they can switch to the underdog fuel - we're just a small island nobody believes in us" etc.

[@randomuruk7230]

"Nothing to be ashamed of from Ireland's standpoint" That's why it keeps happening.

[@JoshuaBallinger]

Breaking news Ian Foster has re-signed a contract with the NZRU that if he wins the world cup he will retain his position of the head coach of the All Blacks and Razors contract will be terminated.

[@JouNaai1448]

Somebody check on Matt Williams today 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦

[@itistrue101]

Ireland believed way too much of their own hype. The way they played the last couple of years they deserved a seat at the big boy's table, they got that. Being number one doesn't mean you get to choose who eats when or what is on the menu, just means you get taken seriously, they got that. Barnes kept them in it, it could've (should've been) a blowout.

[@itistrue101]

@@ivanvincent7534 Truth hurts, but when the sting comes out of it for you you'll see I'm right.

[@SAnd-pd1ou]

Sexton demanding to play every game didn't help. Some munster players held back

[@PB22559]

Rugby is a team game but it sounds like Sexton has too much control over what goes on for Ireland. All this talk from the Irish players of 'we feel like we let Jonny down' was a tell tale sign. The other top sides have multiple options at 10. Ireland should've given Crowley more game time over the last year or so, so he could gel with this team and provide an impact off the bench in a game like yesterday. A knackered Sexton isn't better than a fresh Crowley. I don't care what anyone says.

[@SAnd-pd1ou]

@@PB22559 💯% and the reason why sexton had to play was due to his foul mouth rant at champions cup final

[@Camcolito]

Agree, not necessarily that Sexton shouldn't play, but nobody should be bigger than the team.

[@vcnz]

To all the Irishmen who called the All Blacks 'chokers', suck it up. Winning the RWC is an incredibly tough achievement. The best team doesn't always win the RWC, it's knockout rugby. Every team no matter how could can lose a game. Look back at your 17 wins in a row and be proud.

[@preemz45]

Saxton was gassed in the last 5 to 8 minutes. He did nothing to get the attack going. I thought he would have come up with a miracle