New Zealand spent much of the game against Ireland playing on the, er, edge. To indulge in euphemism, the All Blacks have mastered the dark arts to a degree unlike any other side.
In reality, Ireland were on the end of a horrible combination of questionable refereeing and some roughhouse tactics by the All Blacks. A high tackle by Sam Cane sent Robbie Henshaw off on a stretcher, and Fekitoa spent ten minutes in the bin for attempting to decapitate Simon Zebo.
There was some serious cynicism too: the ABs gave away two deliberate penalties to prevent Ireland crossing twice in the opening half.
While many Irish fans will decry these New Zealand tactics, Paul O'Connell took a very different approach.
Speaking at half-time on Sky Sports, he took the New Zealand tactics as a compliment, saying that the penalties were brilliant in their cynicism.
Outstanding from Paul O'Connell on the dirty play. Instead of whining he's taking it as a compliment and drawing strength from it. #IrlVNZ
— An Spailpín Fánach (@anspailpin) November 19, 2016
O'Connell's attitude shows exactly what a winning mentality is. No interest in excuses. Too hot for you is just about right for me.
— An Spailpín Fánach (@anspailpin) November 19, 2016
