Australia was slaughtered by Ireland in the opening test of the International Rules series last night going down 77 – 41 at Dublin’s Croke Park. It was a reasonably quiet night for the Essendon representatives, although captain James Hird and midfielder Jason Johnson were key players in a third quarter revival that threatened plenty but ultimately delivered nought.

After a very quiet first half, Hird turned it on in the third quarter kicking two goals while Johnson won plenty of the ball through the midfield. Mark McVeigh also did well for Australia although he was given a yellow card and sent from the field for allegedly striking an Irish opponent. Adam McPhee and Dean Solomon both had little or no influence on the game.

Australia simply couldn't match the electrifying speed of Ireland which when combined with their slick ball handling made them virtually unstoppable in the first half. Australia's skill level on the other hand was disgraceful and they paid the penalty.

The biggest disappointment of the night for the Australians - apart from the result - came when Sydney’s Jared Crouch broke his collarbone. He will be sidelined for the next 12 weeks. The second and final game of the series will be played next Sunday night.