The All Blacks reckon their best form has eluded them in Europe and they hope to make a flourishing finish to an all-conquering year against Ireland.
Wins over France (26-19) and England (30-22) have been built on grit rather than panache, according to No.8 Kieran Read, who wants his team to summon the energy for a defining performance.
Victory to secure a perfect 14-from-14 season would be satisfying in itself, Read says, but doing it in style would match the All Blacks mantra of 2013.
"We'd rather get a great performance at the weekend and showcase our talents and game plan," he said.
"We're a team that loves to win playing well. I don't think we'd say we're playing our best footy the last two weeks."
Read believes the All Blacks have lifted to another level since the World Cup triumph of two years ago.
However, softer grounds and opponents who don't want to give an inch at the collision have made it hard to win quick ball and play expansively.
"I think we're playing a better style than what we were back then (2011)," he said.
"Our mental ability, in those two games, was pretty high when it needed to be.
"But if we get it right, it's very exciting to play in and certainly good to watch as well."
The All Blacks selectors are expected to inject fresh faces into the starting XV, which is named on Friday.
Coach Steve Hansen will be wary of flagging energy levels, particularly in the forward pack, where the same eight started the last two Tests.
First five-eighth Dan Carter (Achilles) is unavailable with injury while prop Tony Woodcock (hamstring) is highly unlikely to start as Hansen considers overhauling his tight five.
Read says any changes would bring benefits from an enthusiasm point of view as the team count down to end of another long year.
They are desperate there will be no repeat of their season-ending mauling at the hands of England last year.
"This is the one that people remember and the one that last year we didn't get right," he said.
"It's nice thinking of home and summer but it's about pushing that aside. When we come to work, we work hard and do what's needed."
Share
