‘This group. These fans. I’m just gutted that we couldn’t do it for them’ – Emotional Johnny Sexton proud after crushing defeat

“I’m very proud of the boys – I’m proud of the nation and the country,” the legendary fly half said.

“We couldn’t have done anymore. We got over the line towards the end and it is just fine margins.

“We felt they sucker punched us with a few tries and we had to work really hard for our scores. That’s what champions do. They are a great team. We knew they were going to be a massive challenge and we fell just short.”

“It’s been amazing. The last six weeks has been a dream. This group. These fans. I’m just gutted that we couldn’t do it for them,” he added.

“You have to work hard for fairy-tale endings and we didn’t get it and that is just life,” he added.

“We didn’t leave a stone unturned. We ticked every box. We trained the house down and I thought after a slow enough start we played pretty well tonight.

“A few decisions and a bounce of the ball away from scoring a try. Fair play to the All Blacks. They are a very good team and they are well coached. Fair play to them.”

Andy Farrell hailed his skipper after the crushing defeat.

“I can’t do it justice quickly. First and foremost he’s an outstanding human being. He’s probably the best ever player to play for Ireland and when you’re 38 and playing your best rugby, it says a lot about the man,” said Farrell.

Former team-mate Tommy Bowe added: “The camera is on Johnny Sexton now, he is a broken man. There is a broken country here, so many Ireland fans and unfortunately it is not to be.

“Johnny Sexton is getting a standing ovation. You can see this is a really difficult moment for him. He is fuming, he knew this game was here for the taking. I am devastated for him and absolutely heartbroken for this Irish team, they have set this World Cup alight both with the supporters and the rugby that this team have played,” said Bowe on the BBC.