A host of handling errors and a poor line out meant Ireland made hard work of the Aussies in their Autumn Nations Series game.
Ireland’s handling made it tough for them, particularly in the first half, as they failed to turn territory into points.
All eyes were on Sam Prendergast who had a strong showing overall, but the half back replacements of Craig Casey and Jack Crowley also brought much needed zip to the attack, as they scraped a 22-19 win.
Ireland player ratings:
15. Hugo Keenan – 7
A few errors, but had a lot of excellent involvements throughout the 80 minutes.
14. Mack Hansen – 6
Another quiet performance from the Connacht winger.
13. Robbie Henshaw – 7.5
Such a calming presence, does everything well. World class defensively.
12. Bundee Aki – 6.5
Was relatively error free but did not have his usual impact. Brought off for Garry Ringrose after 55 minutes.
11. James Lowe – 6
Too many costly handling errors from one of Ireland’s most dangerous players. Probably his worst performance of 2024.
10. Sam Prendergast – 7.5
Strong showing. Sexton-esque in how he ran the back line in the first half, kicked superbly out of hand, and had a couple of big defensive plays.
Loses a half point for an easy missed conversion and a down period in the second half where the attack stalled before reinforcements came on.
9. Jamison Gibson-Park – 6.5
Kicked well but was not his usual impactful self.
1. Andrew Porter – 7
Solid from Porter who scrummaged well.
2. Rónan Kelleher – 5.5
Always great in tight exchanges but had handling errors and a big part to play in Ireland’s malfunctioning line out.
3. Finlay Bealham – 6
Scrummaged well also but had a couple of very costly dropped balls early in the first half.
4. Joe McCarthy – 6.5
Australia pack got the better of Ireland in the opening 40, which will not please Ireland’s enforcer.
5. James Ryan – 6
A lot of tackles, but also a lot of errors. He and a few others need a massive rethink on Ireland’s line out.
6. Tadhg Beirne – 7
Not his brilliant best but always good for a few important turnovers.
7. Josh van der Flier – 7.5
Arguably Ireland’s best player once again. His third try for Ireland this November.
8. Caelan Doris – 7
Not his best game in green but still had the most metres, carries, and tackles for any Irish forward.
Replacements:
16. Gus McCarthy – 6.5
17. Cian Healy – 6.5
18. Tom O’Toole – 6.5
19. Iain Henderson – 6.5
20. Peter O’Mahony – 6.5
21. Craig Casey – 7
22. Jack Crowley – 7
23. Garry Ringrose – 6.5
