Ireland fans turn on one player after All Blacks match

With the All Blacks leading 35-21 late in the game, social media quickly filled with criticism aimed at the young fly-half, with many fans blaming the 22-year-old for Ireland's disappointing display.

However, while Prendergast has endured a difficult afternoon, RUCK Editors Steve Smith believes he has unfairly become the scapegoat for a performance in which Ireland were second best in almost every area.

As New Zealand pulled clear, criticism of the Leinster playmaker intensified on X.

One supporter wrote:

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Others questioned whether he is currently Ireland's long-term answer at fly-half.

One fan wrote:

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Several supporters also suggested Jack Crowley should reclaim the No.10 jersey, while others criticised Prendergast's reluctance to attack the line and his defensive efforts.

This is far from the first time Prendergast has found himself at the centre of fierce debate.

Ever since breaking into Ireland's Test side following Johnny Sexton's retirement, the young fly-half has been heavily scrutinised. His defence, physicality and game management have all been questioned after difficult performances, while calls for Munster's Jack Crowley to start have become a recurring theme whenever Ireland lose.

Former Ireland centre Shane Horgan has previously argued that every Irish fly-half has weaknesses, but backed Prendergast because of the attacking qualities and long-term potential he brings to the side. Others have urged patience, pointing out that developing an international fly-half takes time rather than expecting instant perfection.

Saturday's defeat in Auckland felt like another example.

New Zealand's forwards dominated the collisions, disrupted Ireland's breakdown and gave Prendergast precious little front-foot ball to work with. Ireland's defence also leaked tries across the park, making it difficult to pin the defeat on one player.

At just 22 years old, Prendergast is still learning his trade at the highest level while attempting to fill the boots of arguably Ireland's greatest-ever No.10. That is an enormous burden for any emerging playmaker.

There is no question he has aspects of his game to improve. Every young fly-half does. But the expectation from some supporters that he should already be the finished article risks overlooking the realities of Test rugby.

Ireland's problems against the All Blacks extended far beyond the man wearing the No.10 jersey, and making Prendergast the fall guy oversimplifies what was ultimately a collective defeat.