Tighter than a tuba band in a French lift, until the All Blacks broke free from Ireland

A first home defeat for Ireland in 20 matches. No need to go overboard on this but, still, a disappointment.

TIGHT CONTEST: The Ireland team face down the New Zealand Haka. Photo by Sam Barnes/Sportsfile

It was Peter O’Mahony who stood furthest forward in Ireland’s line as they faced up to the haka just before 8.10pm on Friday night.

And it was the Munster man who led the slow shuffle forward in answer to the traditional Kiwi challenge before rubbing his hands together in raw anticipation at the finish.