Joe Kernan's side were forced to initiate defensive mode in the second half to keep their noses ahead until the final whistle after leading by 20 points at half-time.
After losing their grip of the Cormac McAnallen grip last year, Ireland showed their willingness to make amends with an impressive opening half display which included a goal in the fourth minute. Further six pointers from the boot of Aidan O'Shea and Conor McManus put considerable distance between the sides by the stroke of half-time.
By the third quarter however, Ireland were a subdued side while Australia managed to pave a way back into the contest. They outscored the hosts 29-13 in the second half but despite the enforced first-half departure of Donegal's Paddy McBrearty through injury, Ireland's foundation proved solid enough to withstand the onslaught.
Bernard Brogan's behind just moments from time sealed the four point win and the celebrations rightly commenced.
Come on Ireland!!ðŸ€ðŸ€ðŸ€ @KeekiD22 pic.twitter.com/OuPI1iWyOi
— Bernard Brogan (@bernardbrogan) November 22, 2015
Great moment with my childhood hero Jack O Shea after beating the Aussies #jacko #internationalrules pic.twitter.com/43RUn93hXB
— Donnchadh Walsh (@DonnchadhWalsh) November 21, 2015
Proud moment receiving the irish jersey from the great jack O'Shea.. Even better get the W with a great team #eire15 pic.twitter.com/QwSSc3PoSm
— Diarmuid Connolly (@dermoc123) November 22, 2015
Great win tonight & to win back the Cormac McAnallen cup! Disappointed to have to go off but well done to the boys ! #Eìre
— Patrick McBrearty (@PaddyMcBrearty) November 21, 2015
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
