Ireland defeated Australia 33-31 in a thrilling Nations Championship opener at Allianz Stadium in Sydney on 4 July. The Irish trailed twice in the second half before prop Tom Clarkson scored a late converted try to seal the win.
Ben Donaldson had a chance to win it for the Wallabies with a penalty after the final siren, but his kick fell short. The match produced ten tries in a pulsating contest.