The All Blacks have narrowly beaten Ireland 28-24 in what was an all-time classic quarterfinal at the Rugby World Cup this morning.
In an immense defensive effort, the All Blacks survived two yellow cards and 37 phases of play in the final moments to overcome world No.1 team Ireland and end their 17-Test winning streak.
Cane 'absolutely stoked'
All Blacks captain Sam Cane played one of the best games of his career, and said afterwards his side was "absolutely stoked".
"It was a crazy Test match, an absolute arm wrestle for 83 or 84 minutes, both teams going at it. A lot of credit has to go to Ireland.
"I am super proud of the effort that went into the week's preparation. Our ability to defend our line for 30-plus phases at the end, that's huge. What an atmosphere, what a game, what a tournament to be part of and I'm just really happy to have another week."
Foster hails 'monster game'
Coach Ian Foster described it as a "monster game" and praised his side's defence.
"They're a proud team, Ireland, they really hung in there. I thought we had them a couple of times but they kept making the game really tight.
"I am so proud of the way we played. Our defence, particularly in that last part, was brilliant."
Regarding the final play, where the All Blacks held out for 37 phases, Foster was pleased with how his team stayed patient.
"I thought we were really good. We were disciplined, we held our cool. I thought defensively we made some shifts and found a way of stopping their line breaks coming to us. It just became a game of patience in the end and we did it well."
Farrell rues cruelty of sport
Ireland coach Andy Farrell said he was "unbelievably proud" of his team and rued the cruelty of sport.
"That was one hell of a game and somebody had to lose - unfortunately it was us tonight."
"I was so proud of the way we came back and kept attacking them right until the death. We've had a good run, but sport can be cruel sometimes - I guess that's why we love it. The way we kept battling shows the character of this side."
'We left no stone unturned' - Sexton
Ireland captain Johnny Sexton said there was nothing more the Irish could have done.
"They sucker-punched us on a few tries and that's what champion teams do. We knew they were a great side and we fell just short unfortunately.
“It's been amazing. This six weeks has been a dream - this group, these fans and I'm just gutted we couldn't do it for them."
"You've got to work hard for fairytale endings and we didn't get it but that's life. We left no stone unturned, we ticked every box, trained the house down, and played pretty well tonight.
"But fair play to the All Blacks."
'NZ should be incredibly proud' - Kirwan
Speaking on Sky's broadcast coverage, Sir John Kirwan said New Zealanders should be "incredibly proud".
"The character of this team was unbelievable tonight. It was a fantastic game of rugby, you’ve got to give it to Ireland, right to the death it was down to the wire, but the courage and defence of this team showed."
Sir John was also quick to praise the efforts of captain Cane.
"It was an epic performance from Sam Cane. He had nothing left. It’s just been an amazing game of rugby.
"I think every member of this side stayed calm today. There were moments, the yellow cards, they stayed calm, they stayed disciplined. They played a really good tactical game. They kicked it when the guys were off the field, but kicking it so you could recover.
"It came down to courage and effort, getting off that defensive line, made their tackles, amazing performance."
'Great start to the day' - Luxon
Incoming prime minister Christopher Luxon said it's a "great start to the day" with National having won the election and the All Blacks beating the Irish.
"It's a great start to the day when you've got a National government and you've got the All Blacks winning again. I think that's normal resumption."
He said the All Blacks were "back on track" - a reference to National's campaign slogan.
Luxon also joked under the last National government the All Blacks never lost a World Cup.
"So we've got to keep working at it."
Social media erupts
Luxon wasn't the only politician past or present to weigh in. Former Prime Minister Helen Clark was also quick to congratulate the team.
Meanwhile, the Black Ferns were seen nervously watching the final moments before bursting into celebration when the final whistle blew.
Former World Cup winner Ben Smith praised the All Blacks "unbelievable defence" to hold on in the final moments.
"Ireland nothing left in the tank and gave it everything. Heroic effort from both sides. Sexton, great player, not going to be in the conversation," Smith said.
Fellow champion Sonny Bill Williams also weighed in, congratulating the All Blacks while also saying he was feeling for Irish stars Johnny Sexton and Bundee Aki after the loss.
SHARE ME