Paul Cully is a Stuff sports reporter.
OPINION: The All Blacks produced arguably their worst showing in living memory in a first-half performance that saw the curtain close on the time of Ian Foster in charge.
They fought back in the second half to eventually succumb 32-22 in Wellington to an inspired Ireland, but their skill levels and tactical attributes were lacking for long periods on a grim night for New Zealand Rugby.
As a result, it would come as no surprise to see CEO Mark Robinson standing before the media on Sunday discussing the situation ahead of the Rugby Championship, which kicks off with two tests in South Africa.
Be here stuff player ratings from the third test.
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Jordie Barrett. The Hurricanes fullback couldn’t shake the kicking problems he exhibited during Super Rugby Pacific and missed a few shots he should have made. Played out by stylish opposite Hugo Keenan. 3
Will Jordan. The Crusaders fullback posed no threat in the first half with the ball in hand and struggled defensively against James Lowe on the edge. However, he exploded in the test with a brilliant try in the 60th minute, leaving Johnny Sexton in his wake. 5
Ricko Ioane. The All Blacks midfielders looked like rabbits in the headlights against Ireland’s brilliant attack. Rarely knew when to push or drift and saw few opportunities on the attack. 4
David Havili. His left foot 50-22 in the first half was a rare highlight, but his test-level ball-carrying remains in question. 5
Sevu Reece. He showed decent footwork in tight spaces, but looked one-dimensional compared to Ireland’s versatile back-three players. Replace after 62 minutes. 4
Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images
New Zealand’s David Havili and Beauden Barrett look on with disappointment after an Irish attempt in Wellington.
Beauden Barrett. The Ireland peppered three back with high kicks in a change of tactics, but returns were minimal. His running game improved in the second half, but his off-shoe tactical work remains a major concern. Firmly in Sexton’s shadow for the past two tests. 3
Aaron Smith. His kicking was ineffective and the predictability of the All Blacks’ attack was evident as Ireland intercepted the number 9 in the second half. Replace after 62 minutes. 4
Ardie Savea. The Hurricanes No 8 delivered an admirable personal performance on his home turf. He carried the ball with tremendous determination and dragged the All Blacks back into the test with his try at the start of the second half. 7
Sam Kane. Has been second best to Ireland No. 7 Josh van der Flier throughout the series. Replaced by Dalton Papalii with about 17 minutes to go and questions about his captaincy will only grow. 3
Akira Ioane. A replacement for Scott Barrett, who dropped out on matchday due to an Achilles tendon injury. Justified his selection with a barnstorming attempt and was one of the few All Blacks to punch some holes in Ireland’s excellent defence. 6
Sam Whitelock. Despite the veteran’s return, the troubles continued on set, and the All Blacks locks were clearly sent over the field by Ireland’s Tadhg Beirne, who was arguably the man of the match. 4
Brodie Retallick. Substituted in the second half after an upright tackle by Andrew Porter which resulted in the Irish gag being shown a yellow card. He tried his best, but not the dominant physical presence, he was in his prime. 5
Nepo Laulala. Missed an early tackle as the All Blacks were slow to get out of the blocks again. Risky offload within his own 22m failed at the end of the first half, costing the All Blacks seven points as Ireland showed their relentless streak. 2
Cody Taylor. The All Blacks lineout fell apart. They lost four pitches in the first half and also gave up possession when they tried to get their maul to work. Taylor also got a major fit from James Lowe to make his night worse. 2
George Bower. He has worked incredibly hard during his 71 minutes on the field and has not let himself down during this series. 5
Reservations:
Dane Coles. The Hurricanes hooker saw 18 minutes on the field, but the non-selection of Samisoni Taukei’aho remains a mystery. 4
Karl Tu’inukuafe. A late sub for Aidan Ross, who succumbed to a calf injury. Rolled over at the end of the test, but Ireland finished the stronger side. N/A
Offer Tuungafasi. Failed his HIA 1 after being cleaned up by Bundee Aki but the incident was missed as rugby’s high head contact issues and foul play persisted. N/A
Tupou See. Added to the bench after Scott Barrett’s withdrawal. Played and behaved well for the last half hour, but there was always a hectic element to the AB’s comeback attempts. 5
Dalton Papalii. Replaced Cane for the last 15 minutes, but swam against the tide. 4
The sailing. The Highlanders No 9 seems at home in the test arena but now finds himself in the rare situation of being on a losing All Blacks team in his first two games. 4
Richie Mo’unga. During his 19 minutes on the pitch, he was unable to find the space he enjoys in Super Rugby. 4
Roger Tuivasa Sheck. Tough test to make a debut. Only saw 11 minutes of action. N/A