Ireland defeat Australia in thrilling Autumn Nations Finale

Ireland 22-19 Australia, Dublin

Ireland closed out the Autumn Nations Series with a hard-fought 22-17 victory over Australia in Dublin, delivering an enthralling contest that saw late-game heroics secure the win.

The match, played at a packed Aviva Stadium, lived up to its billing as both sides showcased high-intensity rugby.

Ireland opened the scoring through the reliable boot of captain Johnny Sexton, who capitalized on early Australian infringements to put the hosts ahead.

However, the Wallabies quickly responded, with fly-half Carter Gordon slotting a penalty to level the score.

Both teams traded blows throughout the first half, with Ireland’s disciplined defense holding firm against Australia’s attacking efforts.

A sharp counter-attack from Ireland almost resulted in a try, but the Wallabies' defense managed to force a knock-on at the crucial moment, leaving the halftime score finely balanced.

The second half began with renewed vigor as Ireland pushed for dominance. Their persistence paid off when Hugo Keenan crossed the try line following a slick backline move. Sexton’s conversion extended the lead, but the Wallabies refused to back down.

Australia hit back with a try from winger Mark Nawaqanitawase, whose powerful finish in the corner brought the visitors within striking distance. Gordon’s conversion narrowed the gap to just two points, setting up a thrilling final quarter.

Ireland’s bench made an impact late in the game, with replacement forward Caelan Doris powering over for what proved to be the decisive try.

Although Australia fought valiantly and scored another penalty to keep the contest alive, Ireland’s defense held firm in the dying minutes to seal a memorable 22-17 victory.

The win caps off a successful Autumn Nations Series for Ireland, who bounced back from an opening loss to New Zealand with consecutive victories over Argentina and Australia.

Head coach Andy Farrell praised his squad’s resilience, saying, “The fight and determination shown by the team tonight is what Irish rugby is all about.”

Team line up:

Ireland: Hugo Keenan; Mack Hansen, Robbie Henshaw, Bundee Aki, James Lowe; Sam Prendergast, Jamison Gibson-Park; Andrew Porter, Ronan Kelleher, Finlay Bealham; Joe McCarthy, James Ryan; Tadhg Beirne, Josh van der Flier, Caelan Doris (capt).

Reserves: Gus McCarthy, Cian Healy, Tom O'Toole, Iain Henderson, Peter O'Mahony, Craig Casey, Jack Crowley, Garry Ringrose.

Australia: Tom Wright; Andrew Kellaway, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Len Ikitau, Max Jorgensen; Noah Lolesio, Jake Gordon; James Slipper, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Taniela Tupou; Nick Frost, Jeremy Williams; Rob Valetini, Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson (capt)

Reserves: Billy Pollard, Isaac Kailea, Allan Alaalatoa, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Langi Gleeson, Tate McDermott, Tane Edmed, Harry Potter.