A late try from Gus McCarthy secured a narrow win for Ireland in a thrilling contest that marked the 150th anniversary of Irish rugby, pitting the current coach against his predecessor.
Josh van der Flier and Caelan Doris also crossed the try line for the hosts on a historic day when Cian Healy overtook Brian O’Driscoll as Ireland’s most-capped player.
Australia, led by Schmidt, dominated much of the match and seemed poised to spoil the celebrations. Max Jorgensen’s try, along with four penalties and a conversion from Noah Lolesio, gave the Wallabies a significant advantage. However, McCarthy’s decisive 73rd-minute try ensured Ireland ended their autumn campaign with three wins from four matches.
Farrell, who hands over the reins to defence coach Simon Easterby to prepare for next summer’s Lions tour against Schmidt’s Wallabies, had challenged his team to deliver their best performance of the month following victories over Argentina and Fiji.
The Six Nations champions, donning commemorative jerseys, nearly made a dream start when Hugo Keenan’s early surge fell just short of the try line. But it was Australia who struck first, with Lolesio kicking a penalty after Joe McCarthy was penalized for head contact with Rob Valetini.
Schmidt, instrumental in New Zealand’s elimination of Ireland at last year’s World Cup, saw his side extend their lead through Jorgensen’s try in the 19th minute, followed by a pinpoint conversion from Lolesio. Van der Flier responded with his third try of the month, but Ireland failed to convert, leaving the Wallabies in control at halftime with a 13-5 lead.
Ireland struggled to find rhythm in the second half but clawed their way back. Prendergast’s penalty reduced the deficit before captain Doris broke through to score under the posts, putting the home side ahead for the first time. However, indiscipline proved costly as Lolesio’s penalties restored Australia’s lead.
Cian Healy’s record-breaking 134th cap brought a roar from the crowd, with his sons Beau and Russell acting as mascots, but it seemed his milestone might be overshadowed by a defeat. Yet McCarthy’s late intervention ensured a memorable finish, with Jack Crowley converting to seal victory.
The win denied Schmidt a triumphant return to Dublin and gave Farrell the perfect send-off before his Lions preparations begin.
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