Peter O’Mahony emerges as hero of Ireland’s win over All Blacks IT WAS a display for the ages from the Irish team, but after the game there was one name on everyone’s lips. Peter O’Mahony was deservedly named man of the match in Ireland’s monumental 16-9 win over the All Blacks at the Aviva Stadium and since the final whistle the praise has simply not stopped. The Munster back-rower could barely make it past the hour mark, such was the level of pain he put himself through for the Irish cause, but he played an enormous role in handing the Irish public a moment to savour forever. Related: Historic win for Ireland over New Zealand in Dublin There were flashpoints through his performance where O’Mahony influenced proceedings, but some moments stand out. For example, there was a crucial turnover from O’Mahony around the 46th minute. Barely a minute later, he claimed the lineout that would lead to a Bundee Aki move finding Jacob Stockdale, who scored the vital try. He hurt himself around the 50-minute mark, but powered on. Perhaps few moments will sum up the Munsterman’s force of will than when he got back to snuff out this All Blacks attack. Big work rate from Peter O'Mahony to deny Ben Smith. Crucial moment in Ireland's win. pic.twitter.com/X9S1rqxxaD — Murray Kinsella (@Murray_Kinsella) November 18, 2018 Around a minute later, O’Mahony was again getting over the ball to kill All Blacks momentum and claim a crucial turnover. Related: See the reaction to Ireland’s win over New Zealand When the talismanic back-row was finally called upon to leave the field, the fans at the Aviva sounded their appreciation. Unreal reception for O’Mahony going off. What a leader. pic.twitter.com/DGGDygdYsh — Sinéad Kissane (@sineadkissane) November 17, 2018 Post match, fellow flanker Josh van der Flier talked of O’Mahony’s brilliance. "Oh, he was outstanding, wasn't he?" ???? Josh van der Flier (@joshvdf) on Peter O'Mahony's incredible performance & his own injury comeback. Where does @peterom6's performance rank? pic.twitter.com/yuwg9YbTZd — Off The Ball (@offtheball) November 18, 2018 Van der Flier was not the only one to heap praise on O’Mahony. Members of the rugby media were full of plaudits. Ireland, a brilliantly coached team, showed just how good they have become. Johnny Sexton showed why he should be World Player of the Year. Peter O'Mahony showed why nobody has a bigger heart in world rugby. Wayne Barnes showed why he deserves a World Cup Final before retirement. — Miles Harrison (@skysportsmiles) November 17, 2018 Andy Farrell beats New Zealand for a fourth time. And that was his Mona Lisa. An insanely good defensive performance. Peter O'Mahony's snaffling Beauden Barrett's grubber ahead of Ben Smith summed it up. — Charlie Morgan (@CharlieFelix) November 17, 2018 When a man has played himself into the ground for his country, you have to stand and applaude. O’Mahony otherworldly tonight. #IREvNZL — Craig Ray (@craigray11) November 17, 2018 O'Mahony gone. Thought to be in the running for Time Man of the … Continue reading Peter O’Mahony emerges as hero of Ireland’s win over All Blacks