An 81st minute converted try for New Zealand broke Irish hearts in the Aviva today, as they won by 24 points to 22.
The All-Blacks created history by becoming the first country to win all their games in calendar year.
In the 27 meetings before today, the best Ireland had ever done was a draw in 1973.
A scintillating first half performance from the boys in green just wasn't enough as New Zealand held the Irish scoreless throughout the second-half.
Cruden's 52nd minute penalty reduced Ireland's lead before a 64th minute converted try from Ben Franks reduced the gap to 5.
Brian O'Driscoll was forced off shortly after, with Luke Fitzgerald replacing him.
Ireland couldn't have wished for a better start, as they raced into a 19 points to nil lead within 17 minutes.
A 4th minute Conor Murray try, converted by Johnny Sexton put Ireland into a 7 point to nil lead.
Ireland then overturned a New Zealand attack inches from their own line, and the move eventually lead to Rory Best touching down and Sexton converting Ireland's 2nd try.
Rob Kearney then intercepted a New Zealand attack on his own 22 and raced home to score Ireland's 3rd try.
Sexton's conversion attempt struck the post however.
Julian Savea then responded with a try for New Zealand as the Kiwis finally got on the board after 25 minutes.
Sexton had the last say on the half as his 33rd minute penalty proved to be the last score of the half.
Image: Ireland's Gordon D'Arcy tackled by Ma'a Nonu of New Zealand; ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan
