Australia concluded its International Rules series against Ireland with a heavy defeat in the second test in front of 28,000 fans in Croke Park, Dublin.

The 79-point margin was a record in International Rules games between the two countries, with the final score: 6.22.14 (116) – 2.7.4 (37).

The combined series margin of 101 points was also a record.

The Indigenous All-Stars were no match for the skilful Irish, who looked more comfortable with the round ball and hybrid rules.

Captain Michael Murphy and Conor McManus were brilliant in attack for the Irish, with the star duo combining to score eight overs and two goals.

Ireland’s skill with the round ball led to some stunning goals by both hand and foot, with Australian goal keeper Ash McGrath struggling to stop the Irish onslaught and defenders left scrambling.

There were few shining lights for the Australians, Steven Motlop used the ball well once again and Eddie Betts had two overs and a goal, but they were thoroughly outclassed by Ireland.

Port Adelaide small forward Jake Neade matched his goal in the first test with another in the second test, while Eddie Betts’ stumbling shot was the only other goal to find the back the net.

Australia could have used the experience of superstar Buddy Franklin, who flew home after the second test, and the injured Adam Goodes.

The Australians started the game aggressively, desperate to atone for their loss in the first test. This aggression led to Ireland’s Colm Boyle being stretchered off after a heavy hit from Lindsay Thomas, but much like the first test, Ireland’s superior ball use was too much for Australia.

Australian coach, Michael O’Loughlin, was bitterly disappointed after the game and rued his side’s inability to follow the game plan. The Australians set out to run the ball with quick movement by hand, but too often they were found kicking long and missing targets.

Ireland’s win was their second consecutive series win, with Australia not having won a series since their last tour of Ireland in 2010. Following the match, Ireland was awarded the Cormac McAnnellen Perpetual Trophy and players from both teams exchanged guernseys.

While the series may have been one-sided, creating the first ever Indigenous All-Stars team was a great way to celebrate indigenous culture.