Ireland’s Statistics From Soldier Field Highlight How Astonishing Their Win Was

It’s still hard to believe.

Following a truly magical moment, where Ireland paid tribute to the late Anthony Foley by forming the figure eight as they faced the haka, we were treated to a very special game of rugby at Soldier Field.

Ireland provided us with an awe-inspiring performance, defeating the All Blacks by 40-29, ending an astonishing 111 year wait. It truly was a game for the ages, that will live long in world rugby sporting memory.

Looking back at the statistics, makes for even more astonishing reading. When you look at metres runs, the All Blacks managed a whopping, 514, while Ireland only managed 194, despite racking up five tries. In doing Ireland had to attempt 135 tackles in comparison to New Zealand’s 97.

The one statistic that stands out however is the ridiculous penalty count against the All Blacks. When Steve Hansen’s men defeated the Wallabies at last year’s Rugby World Cup final, they conceded a mere seven penalties. Last night, Ireland rattled them to the core, conceding 12 penalties against Joe Schmidt’s men. Ireland conceded just four.

Looking at player statistics, there were some serious star performers. Robbie Henshaw made 12 tackles, missing only one, while carrying 10 times for 26 metres, Conor Murray made four runs from scrumhalf, making one clean break, beating two defenders, carrying for 28 metres while CJ Stander made four runs, carried for 14 metres and racked up an astonishing 14 tackles missing just two. Rob Kearney was another standout player running a seriously impressive 56 metres, topping the charts.

A superb display from all involved in what was a truly special game of rugby. A well-earned victory that will surely catapult Joe Schmidt’s men onto greater things.

Enjoy the moment lads, there’s plenty more where that came from.