“We’re bloody sorry”: All Blacks’ captain apologises for dismal Steinlager Series finale
While the Irish made history on Saturday night by claiming their first Test series win in New Zealand, the All Blacks will have plenty to ponder ahead of August’s Rugby Championship.
A tour that started with so much promise quickly became one of the national side’s most forgetful series’ to date as they lost the decider 32-22 at Sky Stadium.
Ian Foster’s men looked uninspired considering the enormity of the occasion, and were unable to pull back Ireland’s early lead to retain the Steinlager Series trophy.
Captain Sam Cane said the All Blacks were “extremely disappointed” with their performance but gave full credit to Ireland, who were just “too good.”
“We’re extremely disappointed, gutted in fact,” Cane said post-match to Stan Sport.
“We didn’t put out the performance that we so desperately wanted to in front of some pretty awesome fans, but we can’t take anything away from Ireland, they’ve been outstanding these last couple of weeks.
“They were too good for us tonight and we’ve got some work to do.”
While the side has struggled to regain their former World Champion prowess in recent years, Cane lauded the All Blacks’ loyal fans who turned up across the series to throw their support behind the team.
“We certainly felt the support,” Cane continued.
“It’s been incredible to play at home after the last couple of years.
“We felt the support but I tell you what, we’re bloody sorry we couldn’t put the performances out there that you guys deserved.”
“Massive respect to Ireland, they’ve come out here with a massive tour, taken on obviously our three Tests plus the Māori and yeah they’ve been class.
“They deserve their win.”
The side will now have a three-week break before returning to the field on August 7 as they take on the South African conditions to kick off the Rugby Championship.