All Blacks can steal a march at Soldier Field

Despair of losing in 2016 may drive NZ on

- JOHN O'DOWD - ODDS & ENDS

IT'S hard to believe that it's already nine years since Ireland got the better of New Zealand for the first time in an important psychological moment at Soldier Field in Chicago.

Tonight, at the very same venue, and with five victories apiece between the sides from their last 10 head-to-heads, a repeat pairing in the Windy City is down for decision.

Jack Crowley deservedly gets the nod at out-half for Andy Farrell's men, and it will be intriguing to see if he can control the game against such a legendary no10 as Beauden Barrett.

Ryan Baird, Stuart McCloskey, Tommy O'Brien and Jamie Osborne are also being given their opportunities to shine against the All Blacks, so there is much, individually, at stake.

This isn't the all-seeing, all-conquering New Zealand anymore, and they have certainly struggled to put consistent performances together under Scott Robertson.

Tupou Vaai is a big loss in the second row, and Ireland might have the edge up front, but it remains in the back division where the All Blacks are most threatening.

Ireland (15/8) will tempt many punters but, extra determined after what happened in 2016, New Zealand (2/5) get a tentative nod to win narrowly (1-7 points at 3/1).

Dan Sheehan (9/1) can never be ruled out for first try scorer, while Will Jordan (6/4) to score at any time is a must-take. All Blacks scrumhalf Cam Roigard is the key however (2+ tries at 8/1).