Pocock powers Wallabies to victory

An inspirational performance from a returning David Pocock has helped the Wallabies draw first blood against Ireland with an 18-9 victory that has crushed the world No 2 side’s 12-game winning streak.

Michael Hooper’s men have ensured their 39-year unbeaten run on Australian soil against the Irish remained intact with a two tries to zero result that was finished off by a late five-pointer to Pocock in the 72nd minute.

It was his first try for Australia since the 2015 World Cup final.

In front of 46,273 fans at a lively Suncorp Stadium, the Wallabies came from one point down to get their 2018 international campaign off to the best possible start in a low-scoring affair.

Pocock’s presence at the breakdown was unmistakable but so too was that of Ireland’s big men, particularly in attack. The highlight was a turnover from Pocock after 19 phases where the Wallabies looked gassed down their own end.

There was, however, major drama in the 61st minute when an Israel Folau try was disallowed because of alleged foul play, which prompted former Wallaby and Fox Sports commentator Phil Kearns to claim: ‘‘the referees have lost In Brisbane: Australia 18 (Bernard Foley, David Pocock tries; Foley con 2pens) Ireland 9 (Joe Carbery 3pens). HT: 8-6. the plot’’.

Adam Coleman was penalised for tackling Ireland second-rower James Ryan, who did not have the ball. Hooper argued the act had no bearing on the try but referee Marius van der Westhuizen replied by saying: ‘‘The reality is it’s foul play’’.

The Wallabies had to regather and did so courtesy of their big men. They earned a rare scrum penalty, to the fistpumping delight of Michael Cheika, which Bernard Foley kicked to put them ahead 11-9 with 11 minutes remaining.

Behind closed doors, the nonselection of Johnny Sexton and a number of other Ireland stars riled up the Wallabies and this lack of respect was reflected in a dogged Australian effort across the full 80 minutes.