Nine years ago, Ireland recorded their first-ever victory over New Zealand when they met sat Soldier Field – the venue for Saturday’s test.
It was a momentous day in Irish rugby, but for New Zealand, the emotions were contrasting.
“When you reflect back and it’s the first time in history, you don’t want to be that team, but it’s happened now and you accept it,” Robertson reflected.
“You ask players and coaches who were around then what were the learnings from that week and try to get it right this week.”
New Zealand scored a 3-0 series win over France in the summer before turning to the Rugby Championship where they were edged out for the title by South Africa on scoring difference.
In contrast, 18 of the Ireland squad were part of the successful British and Irish Lions’ tour to Australia, but Robertson doesn’t buy into the theory that will hamper Andy Farrell’s side’s preparations for Saturday’s test.
“They won a series away which is tough for the Lions but have a group of men who have played test footy, so they’ll be ready.
“They have good cohesion and are well coached, so we expected the best of them. We know their strengths, know they’ll be a team well organised and well structured who take you deep into the phases.
“We are well into our test series, but that doesn’t guarantee you anything.”
