Ireland secured their first win on Australian soil for almost 40 years after a clinical 26-21 triumph over the Wallabies in Melbourne.
Tries from winger Andrew Conway and tight-head Tadhg Furlong, as well as a consistent display from the boot of Johnny Sexton, who added 16 points from the tee, ensured the tourists made amends from last weekend’s 18-9 defeat in Brisbane.
Despite going behind to an early try from Kurtley Beale after just two minutes, the Irish dominated the majority of the possession and took full advantage of Australian ill-discipline.
Replacement front-row Taniela Tupou crossed late on for Australia, who also scored via a penalty try in the first half.
But Joe Schmidt’s side fully deserved the win, responding with a more ruthless and well-managed team performance.
The victory was their first in Australia since 1979 and means the series is all square at 1-1, going into next Saturday’s decider in Sydney.
Here’s how I rated the Irish team…
