Strong words…
There was a massive fallout from last Saturday’s game in the Aviva Stadium as Ireland lost out to New Zealand in a bruising encounter.
Ireland performed well against the world champions, dominating possession and territory but ultimately lacked the cutting edge to claim victory as they were outscored by three tries to none.
However, sections of Ireland’s fans and media felt aggrieved by some of the on-field decisions of referee Jaco Peyper, which they felt didn’t punish the All Blacks enough for their play, some of which was deemed over the line.
The decisions regard the tackles of Sam Cane and Malakai Fekitoa drew the ire in particular. The citing commissioner yesterday decided that Fekitoa’s tackle on Simon Zebo should have resulted in a red card rather than the yellow he received, and gave him a one week ban.
Cane’s tackle was deemed to be accidental and he didn’t receive any ban.
But the All Blacks were not happy with the performance of referee Peyper either as the penalty count was 14-4 in favour of Ireland. They pointed to Andrew Trimble’s “attempted intercept” which would easily have resulted in a yellow card and penalty try.
Coach Steve Hanson also mentioned a number of neck rolls at ruck time which went unpunished.
Writing for Stuff.co.nz, journalist Duncan Johnstone has been extremely critical of Ireland’s reaction to the defeat.
He wrote:
“Sadly, it seems the Irish are the new whingers of World Rugby.
“It’s a term we Kiwis have traditionally reserved for the English, the “whinging Poms” of the game.
“But the outpouring of Irish outrage against the All Blacks following their 21-9 win in Dublin last weekend has been the equal of anything that has emerged from Fleet Street on previous tours.
“The Irish media have been relentless – and ridiculous.
“I’ve long admired the Irish attitude – Brian O’Driscoll aside at times, of course – and their open admiration for the All Blacks.
“They have continually played an adventurous game compared to most of their northern counterparts and generally approached things with an easy-going attitude that befits the country’s friendly reputation.
“But that seems to have changed since they beat the All Blacks in Chicago, ending 111 years of misery against New Zealand.
“Suddenly they are “mightier than thou”. But if you’ve beaten the best and want to be the best, then start acting like the best.”
What do you think?
