Ireland can expect another aerial assault in Melbourne

JUNE SPOTLIGHT: Australia’s kicking game played an integral part in their 18-9 win over Ireland in the first Test at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.

With the likes of Israel Folau and Dane Haylett-Petty in the back three, the Wallabies bombarded the Irish with a number of cross-kicks and it proved to be an effective tactic for Michael Cheika’s team.

Ireland can expect another aerial assault this weekend. However, Australia could employ a few other tricks in Melbourne to get the advantage.

“I think it [kicking game] worked really well for us,” said Haylett-Petty.

“I think we got a very well-rounded kicking game, we got options all over the park and it just so happened that it worked down that right edge on the weekend.

“We will have a look at it today [Monday] and see what sought of subtle changes we make, but I don’t think we will be changing too much on the things that went well on the weekend.”

The Wallabies scored the only tries of the game during the 80 minutes. However, with a number of exciting players in their backline, the Wallabies know that their attacking play, especially finishing, is one of the areas they can improve on.

“I think there is so many areas that we can improve,” Haylett-Petty added.

“Both teams have felt each other out and have seen what each team is going to bring.

“There were opportunities that we missed out on so there will definitely be some subtle changes this week, but we are pretty happy with the way things went and some of the opportunities that we took.”

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