Little to salvage from wreckage

It was always going to be a monumental challenge playing the world champions on their home turf, but any notions Ireland could catch the All Blacks cold on their first run-out of the season were quickly dispelled at Eden Park on Saturday.

Make no mistake about it, New Zealand were full value for their 42-10 win and the margin could, and should have been greater.

Declan Kidney picked an attack-minded side to face the hosts and they did just that in the first quarter, but once Steve Hansen’s new-look outfit got into their stride, the result was never in doubt.