In a thrilling Rugby World Cup quarter-final clash at Stade de France on Saturday, New Zealand overcame a late siege to secure a 28-24 victory, dealing Ireland their eighth quarter-final defeat.
Leicester Fainga’anuku opened the scoring with a try, propelling the All Blacks to a 13-0 lead. However, Ireland fought back when center Bundee Aki displayed remarkable footwork to cross the try line. Ardie Savea responded with another try, but Jamison Gibson-Park’s try, while Aaron Smith was in the sin-bin for a deliberate knock-on, narrowed New Zealand’s lead to 18-17 at halftime.
Will Jordan notched his fifth try of the tournament, but a penalty try, coupled with hooker Codie Taylor receiving a yellow card, once again brought Ireland within one point.
Center Jordie Barrett then sealed the win with a crucial penalty kick. New Zealand successfully defended their lead in the final minutes, withstanding 37 phases of Irish attacks. This victory sets up a semi-final showdown with Argentina at Stade de France on Friday, October 20.
Now, let’s spotlight five players who have been subject to criticism from various sports publications’ player ratings.
#1. James Lowe
Rugby Pass 3.5: “Lowe had one of his worst performances in an Irish jersey. Lowe dropped the ball behind him and over the sideline with his first touch, and this practically summed up the wing’s off night at Stade de France. Lowe wasn’t just off, he was ineffective in practically all facets of the game.”
Sunday World 5/10: “Was never a game where he could bring his trusty left boot into play, Lowe kept on looking for work but this was a game where his considerable attacking talents ultimately had little bearing on the outcome.”