Rokocoko touches down for the match-winning try against Munster at Thomond Park © Getty Images

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Players/Officials: Doug Howlett | Joe Rokocoko

Teams: New Zealand

It was a backline drill Joe Rokocoko and Doug Howlett had played out countless times at Auckland rugby's training base.

But when the current All Blacks wing cut inside the former New Zealand international, the movement far outweighed the significance of any routine practice session.

Rokocoko's footwork and anticipation were chiefly responsible for ensuring the All Blacks did not lose a second consecutive match to Munster in Limerick, the Irish province Howlett now calls home. The All Blacks desperately needed a smooth backline move in the 77th minute of the match at Thomond Park Stadium on Tuesday to see off Munster.

Rokocoko duly finished off the move by stepping inside Howlett to secure an 18-16 victory, one last dramatic moment in a match that marked the 30th anniversary of Munster's 12-0 win over the 1978 All Blacks. After arriving in Cardiff today to prepare for the test against Wales on Saturday, Rokocoko was almost bashful when asked to describe his matchwinning try.

"I was just lucky," he said. "I think he (Howlett) wanted me to go the outside so I knew the only option was to go inside. It's kind of funny, we normally did those drills and one-on-ones in training."

Practice it seems makes perfect, not that the try was discussed as the Blues old back three of Rokocoko, Mils Muliaina and Howlett reunited in the All Blacks dressing room.

"We never brought it up or anything," Rokocoko said. "We knew he was hurting over it."

All Blacks assistant coach Wayne Smith was eager to praise Rokocoko's clinical finishing just when his side needed it. "I've seen him do that a lot of times and it was pretty timely last night," Smith said. "It was typical Joe, taking an opportunity ... he gets a sniff, and bang."

Rokocoko is the only member of the starting 15 who played against Munster named to start against Wales, and he is grateful for the opportunity after an injury-plagued season.

"The coaches have been awesome giving me more game time,' said Rokocoko, who has scored 43 tries in 50 tests. "I've missed most of the year but I can't complain. I'm getting the legs going again.

"They were a bit tight after (Ireland) but playing again on Tuesday (Munster) was a good confidence builder. Every week I'm feeling happier. You feel more relaxed going into games when you've got some experience from the week before."