Ireland escape to victory as Wallabies almost spoil the party

It was a case of second gear, second best for the most part and almost a second defeat of the Autumn Nations Series for Ireland.

In the end, Andy Farrell's side outscored Australia three tries to one and came away with a barely deserved victory as the IRFU celebrated its 150th anniversary in front of a sold-out Aviva Stadium on a perfect autumn day in Dublin.

Joe Schmidt, returning to his old stomping ground, had his Wallabies sides fired up and they will feel they left the game behind them.

The visitors, who had November wins over England and Wales to their name, led 13-5 at the break and 19-15 with seven minutes to play but Gus McCarthy’s late try saw Ireland avoid a second home defeat in four games, following the opening round loss to New Zealand.

Josh van der Flier’s try was Ireland’s only score of the opening half, with Max Jorgensen’s try and eight points by out-half Noah Lolesio no more than Australia deserved.

Ireland scored 10 points in the opening 10 minutes of the second half, including a try for captain Caelan Doris but Australia retook the lead with two penalties McCarthy’s late try got Ireland out of jail.

After much discussion about Farrell’s out-half selection, both Sam Prendergast and Jack Crowley contributed. The debate will continue until Ireland’s opening Six Nations game against England when the Ireland head coach will be on his Lions sabbatical.

It’s three wins from four for Ireland in November but relief will be the overriding emotion after this one.

The camera cut to Farrell in the coaching box after an Irish attack broke down midway through the first half and the head coach was scratching his head. He wasn't the only one.

It's been a while since Ireland's first XV produced such a poor 40 minutes of rugby.