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Rugby Union

Aussies hold off spirited Ireland in Melbourne

14/06/2008

Australia have beaten Ireland 18-12 to win the summer Test between the two sides in Melbourne.

A contest between two sides keen to play flowing rugby resulted in an entertaining and open game in Australian coach Robbie Deans' first game in charge.

Ireland looked like they might stage a remarkable fightback from 18-7 down - a lead established courtesy of tries from Berrick Barnes and James Horwill and the boot of fly-half Matt Giteau - when captain Brian O'Driscoll crossed for a try in the second period to add to Denis Leamy's first-half score.

But it was not enough as the hosts held on.

The match began at a frenetic pace as both sides looked to establish their dominance.

And it was the Wallabies who drew first blood as talented young centre Barnes, who is tipped to become one of the world's best midfield players, touched down after only six minutes.

However, the Irish bounced back as flanker Leamy was driven over by a tenacious pack, with Ronan O'Gara kicking the points for a 7-5 lead.

Second row Horwill re-established the advantage for Australia before the break after a superb Giteau break. And a penalty from the hosts' stand-off gave them an 11-point lead shortly after the interval.

O'Driscoll's try, after good work from Tommy Bowe and Rob Kearney on the hour, reduced the arrears but it was not enough as the Aussies held on for the win.