Following the Socceroos disappointing result against Egypt earlier, Australian fans sought a lift from the Wallabies. Despite recent form issues with seven losses in eight Tests, the underdogs nearly toppled third-ranked Ireland at Allianz Stadium in Sydney. They scored five tries in a vibrant attacking display but fell to a narrow 33-31 defeat at the final whistle.

Both teams shook off long layoffs with an early try exchange. Australia opened the scoring after a loose lineout, as Carter Gordon found Jock Campbell who linked with Dylan Pietsch to finish in the corner.

Ireland replied in the tenth minute through Sam Prendergast, with Cian Prendergast converting for a 7-5 lead. Gordon soon created an opening for Campbell to cross after a long absence from the side. Ireland answered again when Josh van der Flier scored.

Trailing 10-12, the Wallabies responded with a sweeping attack featuring Gordon, Rob Valetini and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii that allowed Josh Canham to cross and level the contest.

Max Jorgensen forced a turnover that led to Ryan Lonergan scoring, pushing the lead to 24-12 after six tries inside half an hour.

Australia continued to impress until Ireland struck on the halftime siren through Jamison Gibson-Park to trail 24-19 at the break.

Seven minutes into the second half Ireland regained the lead when Garry Ringrose set up Hugo Keenan to make it 26-24.

Tate McDermott soon restored Australia's advantage with a try converted by Gordon for a 31-26 buffer as both benches emptied.

Ireland appeared to score through Dan Sheehan but the try was overturned after a review for obstruction, leaving the score unchanged.

Discipline slipped with repeated penalties and handling errors. Donaldson missed a penalty chance with ten minutes remaining.

Ireland advanced into the red zone and mauled forward until Lachlan Shaw received a yellow card, allowing Thomas Clarkson to score and give Ireland a 33-31 lead.

With time expired Ireland conceded a penalty at the ruck. Donaldson lined up a 40-metre kick that drifted wide, handing Ireland the win while the Wallabies and their supporters left the field disappointed.