Wales face Graham Henry’s New Zealand side over the next two weekends with Tests in Dunedin and Hamilton. Many pundits in Kiwi land were predicting a slow start to the international calendar as the All Blacks are ravaged with injury, but a nine-try rout suggests they are in fine fettle.
Standout centre Conrad Smith, halfback Jimmy Cowan and debut lock Sam Whitelock each scored two tries each in what was a record score against Ireland.
First five-eighth Dan Carter kicked eight from eight for a 17-point haul – bringing up 1000 points in his 67th test – before debutant Aaron Cruden made his international bow in the 54th minute with the match in the bag.
Ill discipline cost Ireland dearly with No 8 Jamie Heaslip red carded for kneeing Richie McCaw’s head in the 15th minute.
Wales will now be fully aware the All Blacks’ cutting edge is razor sharpe with Corey Jane, Joe Rokocoko and Israel Dagg a threat every time they got the ball.
The All Blacks made Ireland pay dearly for every mistake. The men in green were left red faced after gifting the All Blacks numerous opportunities to score with weak tackling, dropped passes and poor decision making.
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