The beauty of a three-test series is that an opening defeat isn’t fatal, but Australia are keen to put their foot on the throat of Ireland’s challenge next weekend in Melbourne.
Michael Cheika’s Wallabies made a flying start to the series with an 18-9 victory in Brisbane.
The Grand Slam champions struggled to make any inroads in attack, and defensively will have plenty to ponder over the coming week ahead of next weekend’s clash.
Kurtley Beale exuded class throughout the contest and the versatile back is looking for his team-mates to show a ruthless streak to end the tour as a contest.
"The series isn’t over yet and the group is fully aware of that. We enjoyed the win, but the focus quickly switches on to Melbourne next week and to try and get the job done there.
"They are the number two team in the world for a reason. I’m sure they will come up with a strategy. Likewise, we have a lot of homework to work on."
"Ireland will come back hungrier and keen to get a result"
A great deal of focus has centered on Ireland’s inability to penetrate the Australian defence, but of equal concern is how Joe Schmidt’s side struggled, both collectively and individually, to curb the Wallabies on the front foot.
It is something that Beale took immense pride from and says was the winning of the game.
"Ireland are probably one of the best defensive teams in the world. For us to break that, and exit well was crucial for us to keep building momentum in the game and release pressure.
"I think that allowed us to get into the game. Certainly it allowed us to play the game we want to play. No doubt that needs to be continued.
"Ireland will come back hungrier and keen to get a result."
