Yes, there is honour in defeat

Now that was a test match. Saturday’s game in Lansdowne Road had everything — mesmerising skills, unrelenting physicality, and unwavering commitment.

New Zealand deserved their win, primarily because they outscored Ireland by three tries to none, even if controversy attached to two of those tries.

Ireland had opportunities to score but lacked the necessary composure within touching distance of the try line. The passes that stuck in Chicago went to deck on this occasion, due in no small measure to a phenomenal defensive effort from the men in black.