The Wallabies suffered a heartbreaking 33-31 defeat to Ireland at Allianz Stadium in Sydney, with Ben Donaldson's last-minute penalty miss sealing the loss. Australia scored five tries in an exhilarating display but fell short against the world's third-ranked side in the Nations Championship opener.
Fast start with flurry of tries
Both teams shook off rust quickly, trading tries in the opening quarter. Australia struck first when Carter Gordon's long ball set up Dylan Pietsch to dive into the corner. Ireland replied through Sam Prendergast, but Jock Campbell crossed for Australia after a 1,316-day exile. Josh van der Flier nudged Ireland ahead, only for Josh Canham to finish another sweeping raid, making it 24-12 after Max Jorgensen forced an error and set up Ryan Lonergan.
Ireland fight back
Ireland scored just before halftime through Jamison Gibson-Park to trail 24-19. Early in the second half, Hugo Keenan burst through to put Ireland ahead 26-24. Tate McDermott then regained the lead for Australia, but Dan Sheehan's try was overturned after a review for obstruction. The game remained tight with both sides making errors.
Final drama
With the score 33-31 to Ireland after Thomas Clarkson's try, Australia earned a penalty in the dying seconds. Donaldson's 40-metre kick sailed wide, ending the Wallabies' hopes. "It's a tough one to take," said Wallabies captain Harry Wilson, according to reports. The crowd of 41,971 watched in disbelief as Ireland celebrated.
