All Blacks beat Irish 24-22, complete perfect year

DUBLIN (AP) New Zealand completed its first perfect season Sunday as a last-gasp try by Ryan Crotty and retaken conversion by Aaron Cruden defeated Ireland 24-22 and denied the Irish their first-ever win against the All Blacks.

The Irish enjoyed a dream start with first-quarter tries by Conor Murray, Rory Best and Rob Kearney. They led 22-7 at the half with hopes of a first victory over New Zealand in 28 attempts.

But behind 22-17, New Zealand drove clinically down the field in the final seconds of regulation and, in the 82nd minute, Crotty touched down in the left corner to tie the match before a disbelieving, booing crowd.

Cruden missed his initial attempt wide right but was allowed to retake it because Irish players charged early. His second kick was perfect.