**Match Report: All Blacks Topple Ireland 23-13 to Claim Raeburn Shield in Dublin**

In a gritty 23-13 victory, the All Blacks overcame Ireland at the Aviva Stadium, ending Ireland’s 19-game unbeaten home streak and bringing the Raeburn Shield—a prestigious lineal title that passes only by direct victory—back to New Zealand. This high-stakes win saw New Zealand use their precision and discipline to outlast the Irish, who fought hard but struggled with penalties. The Shield now continues its journey in the hands of the All Blacks as they head to face France next.

### Key Moments of the Match

The match started with a charged atmosphere as Ireland met New Zealand’s haka with intensity, with Andrew Porter even charging down a kick in the opening minutes. Yet, the game took a slower, tactical pace, and both sides struggled to find clear attacking opportunities in the first half.

New Zealand’s Damian McKenzie proved invaluable, kicking three penalties to give the All Blacks a slim 9-6 lead at the half. Ireland nearly gained the upper hand when Jordie Barrett was yellow-carded just before the break for a high tackle on Garry Ringrose, and Ireland capitalised on the advantage early in the second half when Josh van der Flier crossed the line to put Ireland ahead 13-9.

However, New Zealand’s experience and patience paid off as Ireland’s discipline issues led to penalty after penalty in range for McKenzie, who expertly added nine more points to put New Zealand ahead 18-13.

In the closing stages, the All Blacks delivered the final blow when Will Jordan dived over the line for a try, securing the win and extending their dominance in this fierce rivalry.

### Raeburn Shield: Tradition and Extra Tension

Though not officially recognised, the Raeburn Shield adds an extra layer of excitement for fans and players alike. This lineal title passes only when the current holder is defeated, creating high stakes in every game and offering all nations a chance to compete for it.

The Shield’s impact on the game is felt in these key ways:

- 🔗 **Lineal World Title:** Only passed by direct victory, the Shield turns every game into a title defence, raising the stakes and intensity on the field.

- 📜 **Rugby Legacy Across Borders:** The Raeburn Shield’s journey connects players and fans across nations, adding pride to each win and honour to each defence.

- 🏆 **Inspiring Fan Engagement:** Thousands of fans engaged with the Shield online throughout the weekend, showing how much this lineal title resonates with the global rugby community.

- 🌍 **An Open Challenge for Every Nation:** Any team has a chance to hold the Shield, creating rare opportunities that make each defence meaningful. With their next test against France, the All Blacks face their first title defence—and there’s no guarantee it will stay in New Zealand.

### What’s Next?

With Ireland now regrouping to face Argentina, the All Blacks turn their attention to France. The upcoming match will mark New Zealand’s first defence of the Raeburn Shield since reclaiming it in Dublin, and with every match, the legacy of this lineal title grows.

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