Top five sporting moments of 2013

New Zealand unbeaten

DUBLIN, IRELAND – NOVEMBER 24: Sam Whitelock of the All Blacks is tackled by Devin Toner during the International match between Ireland and New Zealand All Blacks at the Aviva Stadium on November 24, 2013 in Dublin, Ireland. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)

Becoming the first side to ever maintain a 100% unbeaten record in rugby union was a hugely significant moment for the All Blacks in 2013 as they swept aside all challengers in their path to make unforgettable history.

With their own brand of stinging tackles and never-say-die attitude, they fought tooth and nail to cement their name in the history books and always looked to better themselves with each passing game. Claiming a grand total of 14 victories in the single calendar year is a massive achievement for the World no.1 side and one that Steve Hansen and his squad are sure to have savoured in the wake of their dramatic, inspired last-minute win against Ireland back in November.

And although the World Cup is still over two years away, it remains to be seen exactly who can come close to the marker put down by the most dominant force in the game. In truth, right now it seems an impossible task to replicate and one that lovers of sport everywhere are sure to savour for years to come – and rightly so.