BOD points to breakdown battle

Ireland captain says refereeing of the contested ball will be the key

Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll has pin-pointed the way to beat New Zealand in Saturday's second Test in Auckland - dominance in the breakdown.

The inspirational centre is looking to unsettle the All Blacks and claim a famous victory.

However, O'Driscoll is wary that much will depend on referee Jonathan Kaplan's approach.

"Dominance of the breakdown is very important," said O'Driscoll.

"But it can vary from game to game, depending on who the referee is and what his take on the tackle situation is.

"You play to your knowledge of the referee. It might be different this weekend with a different referee. You might find both sides playing him differently."

If the match is heading towards an All Blacks victory, an all-out assault plan may be unleashed by the Irish.

O'Driscoll believes playing rugby off the cuff and running hard can be an effective option but he concedes it carries with it high risks.

Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan is still hoping full-back Geordan Murphy will be fit.

Murphy has an Achilles tendon strain following last Saturday's 34-23 defeat by the All Blacks in Hamilton.