The Wallabies will be buoyed by their performance in the first Test against Ireland in Brisbane that saw them record a memorable 18-9 victory. Australia will be looking to continue their impressive defensive effort when the action continues in the second Test at AAMI Park in Melbourne.
David Pocock made a successful return to the Wallabies back row after an 18-month sabbatical and the Wallabies coaching staff were pleased with the impact had by rookies Pete Samu and Brendan Paenga-Amosa. Ultimately, Australia were able to put the brakes on the 12-match winning streak of the Six Nations winners and will be looking to continue their outstanding form in Melbourne.
The Six Nations Champions are coming off a tough campaign against the likes of England, Wales and France and will be looking to rebound in Melbourne. Joe Schmidt’s men showed plenty of determination during their clash in the first test and will look to bring Johnny Sexton and Tadhg Furlong into the fold, who both started from the bench in the first Test.
The Irish have travelled one of their best sides in decades and will be determined to keep the three-Test series alive with a win in Melbourne.
Win-Draw-Win
The Wallabies were impressive in keeping Ireland try-less in the first game in Brisbane and enjoyed a 90% completion rate.
Micheal Cheika’s men will be hopeful of continuing the good form they displayed in the opening fixture and wrapping up the series in Melbourne.
Joe Schmidt will be disappointed that his charges failed to score a try in the opening game, despite having a number of opportunities to get over the line.
Schmidt opted to start some of his stars from the bench and expect Johnny Sexton to come under serious consideration for the likes of Joe Carbery. The team from the Emerald Isle missed Sexton’s composure in the opening half of the first game and the play-maker could enjoy the damp conditions on offer in Melbourne.
Australia are hot favourites at $1.78 to clinch the series in Melbourne and Ireland ($2.05) will be desperate for a victory to stay in the hunt for the Lansdowne Cup.
Tip: Australia to beat the line (-1.5 points)