Halloween horrific at times for All Blacks

All Blacks supporters will hope there isn't another fright night looming for their team on Halloween.

The Rugby World Cup final against Australia at Twickenham falls on October 31, a date synonymous with some notable defeats - all in the United Kingdom - for the current world champions.

Most recent was the remarkable 43-31 semi-final loss to France at Twickenham in 1999. Leading 24-10 early in the second half, the New Zealanders were spooked by a rousing French finish which they couldn't contain.

Two famous tour losses also fell on October 31.

In 1972 they lost 9-3 to Llanelli at Stradey Park, a result still fondly recalled by Welsh supporters.

Six years later it was the same again in Limerick, when Munster won 12-0. Their only loss on an 18-match tour has spawned Irish songs, poems and a play.