Rugby: Kearney set to tackle NZ - one game at a time

Ireland fullback Rob Kearney. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Irish fullback Rob Kearney proved to be a very astute player in several visits to New Zealand and has arrived with a pragmatic approach about beating the All Blacks.

"The first test is our best chance because it is our next chance," he said with a trace of a smile.

"And if the first test doesn't go our way then the one after that will be our best chance again after that."

The 26-year-old - who offers speed, a strong boot and great instincts - felt Ireland might have a slight advantage because they had played together more recently.

But he viewed all the tests in Auckland, Christchurch and Hamilton as opportunities to unsettle the World Cup winners and create a famous piece of Irish rugby history.

It had been a huge occasion when Ireland tipped up the Wallabies at the World Cup and the visitors had to aim to repeat that form.

"As players, we always believe that we can match it with the best teams in the world when we turn up and play good rugby. As a player and as a team, you have to believe that.

"What's important for us is that we keep trying to reproduce that form. We set a bar there in that game, a standard, and it's important for us to keep matching that."

Ireland had to switch on this month otherwise it would feel like a long visit. They knew this trip was looming and needed to pitch up for one last phase of their season.

If Irish professional rugby players could not get fired up to play the All Blacks in their own backyard, then they were probably in the wrong occupation.

Israel Dagg had fitted well into the fullback role after Mils Muliaina and the All Blacks showed that same sort of depth throughout their squad.

Kearney had watched a great deal of the latest Super 15 series and admired that tournament as a stepping stone to the international circuit.

Perhaps he fancied a move south to test his skills like English loosie James Haskell had.

"I'd like to think I still have a bit of youth on my side," the 37 times capped Kearney said. "I'm not going to be pushed into a decision like that just yet but obviously there are real attractions to Super Rugby - but, as I say, that's not anywhere near my mind right now."