The New Zealand media is describing the Irish rugby team’s victory over the All Blacks as a “historic” victory and labeling Ireland as a “legendary” team.
the New Zealand Herald carried a strong-headed commentary both praising Ireland and criticizing the All Blacks ruling; “Ireland is the legendary team that was All Blacks”
Iy also congratulated Andy Farrell, Ireland’s head coach, for his “intelligent, skilled, world-class Irish team who have expertly selected the All Blacks over the past two weeks.”
The main headline on their website showed a photo of the Irish team and the headline: “Ireland claims historic victory over All Blacks”.
Radio New Zealand (RNZ) highlighted the novelty of this win in their headline “Ireland beats All Blacks for first time in test series with 32-22 win”.
They attributed the win to the Ireland captain, saying: “Warhorse Johnny Sexton reigned supreme as the Irish stunned the hosts with the string of tries and bone-shaking tackles.”
All Blacks captain Sam Cane also told RNZ that “we haven’t put on the performance we wanted, but we can’t take anything from Ireland. They were too good tonight. Huge respect for Ireland, they have been class and deserve their win tonight.”
Meanwhile, an online headline from 1news read: “Press AB’s Buses After Ireland Stamp Series”.
The article described the win as a “pulsating and historic 32-22 win” and complimented Ireland for their “much greater composure and attacking flair”.
“Basically, they looked well coached, and the All Blacks; rattled, confused, lack of ideas, not,” was the verdict of one journalist.
New Zealand media website Stuff also led with an introspective approach to the loss, with the headline: “All Blacks Suffer Serial Loss as the Microscope Goes on Ian Foster.”
The piece referred to their “miserable first half.”
The match analysis article praised Ireland for being “a very good team”, but followed it up with “the All Blacks should have been much better.”