All Blacks fullback Ben Smith says there's no chance of complacency in their two matches against Ireland after the thriller in Dublin in 2013.
The Irish have never beaten the All Blacks, but came closest in 2013 at Aviva Stadium where they were ahead 22-10 in the final 10 minutes of the game, only for two tries and a retaken conversion by Aaron Cruden in the 83rd minute to steal it.
Speaking at the airport before the team's departure on Friday, Smith said that neither he nor the rest of the team had forgotten about the touch-up they were given by the Irish pack.
"I just remember being under the pump, and we were really really lucky to escape that game on the right end of the result," Smith said.
"I think it shows how passionate the Irish are and they were really physical that day, and I'm expecting more again this week."
The All Blacks will meet Ireland twice on their end of year tour, once at Soldier Field in Chicago next week and in Dublin, in the All Blacks' final match of the season.
Smith also said he was impressed with the way the USA got behind rugby, and was tipping the Irish to receive the bulk of the support in Chicago next week.
"I just remember that America really embraced the whole rugby concept.
"Soldier Field was pretty awesome. I just remember that we were playing the States and they got right in behind it. I'm sure Ireland will get a lot of support there.
"It's going to be an awesome occasion."
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