New Zealand captain Richie McCaw was a relieved man as his side ground out a 21-11 victory over Ireland.
All Blacks captain pleased to overcome brave Ireland
New Zealand captain Richie McCaw was a relieved man as his side ground out a 21-11 victory over Ireland.
In horrendous conditions at the Westpac Stadium in Wellington, with the rain hammering down and freezing temperatures, Ireland had led 11-8 just after half-time only for the hosts to come storming back.
Paddy Wallace crossed for a try for the tourists, with Ronan O'Gara kicking two penalties, but the boot of Dan Carter and tries from Sitiveni Sivivatu and Ma'a Nonu saw All Blacks snatch the win.
And McCaw was pleased to see his side win. He told
Sky Sports: "It was a tough match.
"We always knew it would be like that but the boys dug deep and I guess a Test win is a Test win.
Difficult
"We just didn't quite get the chance to get the field positions to get the pressure on. We did a couple of times but they got the pressure off. But we took our opportunities I guess in the second half, so I suppose I am happy.
"On a night like this, you can put the pressure on but the ball is difficult to keep hold of so you have to take your time."
To conditions certainly got to rival captain Brian O'Driscoll, who was left shivering during his post-match interview.
And the Leinster man admitted it had been a hard day all round for his side.
O'Driscoll told
Sky Sports: "I don't know if I have played in much colder than that.
"It was a difficult game of rugby and you were better off not having the ball at times.
"We lasted for 60 minutes but we just couldn't finish it off and the second you start chasing the All Blacks it is the second they start opening you up. That is how it worked out but we fought to the end."
