How the ABs rated

Beauden Barrett: Scored a ‘Beauden’ – one of those tries that only he can score – and terrified the Irish with his pace when he injected himself into the play. 8

Brilliant performance on the right wing and made good reads on defence. Expected aerial bombardment didn’t materialise as Ireland were blown off the paddock. through end-of-season tour in 2018 looked like a distant memory. 8 Brodie Retallick: Powerhouse performance as the All Blacks locks sent out a message to the impressive English pack. 8 Nepo Laulala: Didn’t need to prove himself – when Owen Franks was injured in 2017 Laulala was already outstanding – but still erased any lingering doubts abut the Cantabrian’s absence. 7.5 Codie Taylor: Justified his selection by slowing down the Irish ball at almost every ruck and putting pressure on Conor Murray’s kicks. Physical, yet disciplined (apart from one penalty for tackling the man without the ball). 8

Joe Moody: Surely his finest game in the black jersey. Scrum was a reliable platform, and Moody carried multiple times and defended like a sledgehammer in his 49 minutes. 8.5 Reserves:

Dane Coles: Couldn’t match Taylor’s defensive ferocity but set up Bridge for a try with a beautiful offload. 6.5

Ofa Tuungafasi: Gave away a penalty shortly after his introduction and scrum work will need to tighten up against England. 6

Angus Ta’avao: Brought trademark energy but scrum weakened when ABs introduced their replacements and was penalised for a neck roll. 5.5 Scott Barrett: Replaced Cane at halftime to take up a spot on the side of the scrum and immediately found the rhythm of the game. Genuine option to start at No 6 against England if Cane isn’t right. Dominant in the air. 7.5

Matt Todd: Grabbed a second-half try from close range but was yellow carded for a needlessly cynical piece of play in the last five minutes. 5

TJ Perenara: Introduced with the game in the bag but popped a nice pass for Todd’s try but lacked Smith’s accuracy in general play. 6 Sonny Bill Williams: Replaced Goodhue after 52 minutes and brought a physical edge. The perfect bench weapon. 6.5 Jordie Barrett: Got 18 minutes on the right wing and dived over for an easy try after more magic from Mo’unga and his older brother. 6

BY PAUL CULLY