Ireland manager Pete McGrath reckons his side still have their ”pride and self esteem" intact after a second Test slug-fest against 2005 International Rules Series winners Australia.
The 63-42 Telstra Dome win for the hosts was marred by a steady stream of brawls and off-the-ball scuffles as Ireland's solid start - they lead 13-11 after the first quarter - was cut asunder by the power-packed Aussies.
The hosts' captain Chris Johnson was sent-off on 32 minutes for a dangerous ‘clothesline’ style tackle on Philip Jordan which could have seriously damaged the Tyrone player's neck.
At times, the Melbourne contest, watched by 45,428 spectators, degraded into thuggery but at least, Ross Munnelly, Sean Cavanagh, Ronan Clarke and Ciaran McManus emerged with some credit as they kicked two overs apiece.
“Our players gave it everything. I feel our team redeemed itself and got some pride and self esteem back,” former Down boss McGrath told RTE.
“We actually won the third quarter, but the Australians' fitness, teamwork and strength came to bear in the final quarter when our guys were out on their feet.”
McGrath, who dubbed Kevin Sheedy's side "the best Australian team to ever represent their country", was gracious in defeat but not impressed with the hosts' often dangerous tackling.
Refusing to name names, he added: "Some of the tackles were highly dangerous and players could have been very, very seriously injured. Some of the tackling would be unacceptable in any sport and there were situations where players, amateur players, were put at serious risk."
The GAA and the AFL are contracted to the International Rules Series until 2007, but today's un-sporting scenes could prompt a re-think on the hybrid game's future.
The AFL, who are in the process of tying up a record five-year TV rights deal worth an estimated AUS$130 million, are also looking at extending the Aussie Rules' playing season which could see the Rules Series staged every two years.
Today's 21-point second Test success marked Australia's first International Rules match win in Melbourne - the eight previous encounters in Victoria's capital city had gone the way of Ireland.
