All Blacks flanker Liam Squire insists he is not getting too carried away with his impressive performance in the 54-34 win over the Wallabies on Saturday night.
The decision to start Squire ahead of veteran Jerome Kaino came as a surprise to many, but the 10-Test forward showed his worth in a standout performance, which included dotting down for the first try of the match.
But Squire admitted post-match he was proud of his performance, but admitted he must back it up with another solid showing when he next dons the black jersey.
"It was good to put on a performance that I can be proud of but I'm not going to get to ahead of myself," Squire said.
"We have another game against the Wallabies next week, so tonight will probably mean nothing if I don't back it up so I can only put my best foot forward this week and hopefully get another crack.
"I've been trying to grow my game and get better each week. To finally get out and put a few games under my belt is good for me. Hopefully I can keep improving."
Coach Steve Hansen was impressed with Squire's work rate in the match.
"He played well. He rewarded the team and himself for us working hard with him over the last 18 months," Hansen said.
"He is a pretty phenomenal rugby player when he gets it right, and tonight he got it right. It was lovely to watch."
The All Blacks face the Wallabies next week in Dunedin, and if they win they will secure the Bledisloe Cup for another year.
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