2018 Autumn Internationals – Ireland vs New Zealand Preview
AT A GLANCE
When is Ireland vs New Zealand taking place? Saturday 17th November, 19:00
Where is Ireland vs New Zealand taking place? Aviva Stadium
What is the playing surface? Hybrid Grass
What is the expected weather at Ireland vs New Zealand? Cloudy, cold
What channel is Ireland vs New Zealand on? Channel 4
Where can I stream Ireland vs New Zealand? Channel 4 website/All 4 app
Are tickets still available for Ireland vs New Zealand? https://www.autumn-internationals.co.uk/tickets.html
LAST MEETING
Ireland 9-21 New Zealand
THE LOWDOWN
IRELAND
Head Coach: Joe Schmidt
- Ireland laboured to victory over Argentina last week but face a much sterner test this week with world champions New Zealand heading to the Aviva Stadium.
- The Irish left it late in a game that saw the lead change eight times as they eventually sealed a 28-17 win.
- Joe Schmidt must do without centre Robbie Henshaw and scrum-half Conor Murray with the pair failing to overcome their respective injuries. Sean O’Brien is also out after the second row broke his arm against the Pumas.
NEW ZEALAND
Head Coach: Steve Hansen
- New Zealand overcame their slow start to defeat England at Twickenham in awful conditions last week.
- Steve Hansen’s side found themselves 15-0 down early on in the contest but hit back with 16 unanswered points to claim the narrow win.
- The All Blacks have never lost to Ireland on Irish soil and will be looking to maintain that impressive record here.
THE PREDICTION
Back in 2016, Ireland claimed their first win over New Zealand in 101 years. Having created history with that first win against the All Blacks in Chicago, an elusive home win is yet to be achieved and the Irish will be keen to finally put that record to bed on Saturday. They face an uphill task with some key men missing and having suffered a scare against England last week, the All Blacks are likely to come out all guns blazing as they seek a more comfortable victory.
