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It took 111 years to do it, but Ireland have finally recorded a win over the All Blacks, defeating New Zealand 40-29 at Soldier Field in Chicago.
In a week where Chicago’s Cubs broke a 108-year drought, and a year where Leicester City, the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Western Bulldogs and the Cronulla Sharks all produced shock title wins, Ireland have add even more mystique to the proceedings.
» Five talking points from Ireland’s big win
» Re-live all the action with our live blog
That finishes the All Blacks’ record win streak, stretching back to last year’s Rugby World Cup, at 18 matches – a fine feather in their cap, but it ended in Chicago.
Ireland become just the sixth nation in history to ever beat New Zealand in the sport that they have so often dominated – along with Australia, South Africa, France, England and Wales.
The final result of 40-29 also saw the All Blacks give up the equal-fourth-most points they have ever conceded in a Test – the most ever being 46 against South Africa in 2000.
The Irish dashed out to 25-8 half-time lead thanks to tries from Jordi Murphy, CJ Stander and Conor Murray – but, it seemed to be a familiar tale being written as the All Blacks began to close the gap in the second half.
New Zealand came as close as four points away from the Irish, trailing 22-29 in the match when there was just 15 minutes left to play.
However that was when Robbie Henshaw made the moment his, scoring a match-sealing try that will live forever in Irish rugby mythology.
“We just talked about attacking New Zealand,” said Irish captain Rory Best.
“We knew they are a great side. You can see how good a side they are and how much it means to our boys to have won that.
“We just had to go out and attack them.
“If you give them ball and stand off them they’re an unbelievably dangerous outfit. I couldn’t be prouder of the work we’ve put in over the last couple of weeks.
“It’s been a long time coming and history (has been) made. We’re absolutely ecstatic.”
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.