Irish wary of Aussie backlash

STAND-IN Ireland captain Tadhg Furlong expects wounded Australia to arrive in Dublin “all guns blazing” following their historic humiliation at the hands of Italy.

Andy Farrell’s men complete their autumn campaign against the Wallabies next weekend after backing up victory over world champions South Africa by beating Fiji.

While the Irish were claiming a disjointed win over Vern Cotter’s side at the Aviva Stadium, muchchanged Australia were suffering a shock 28-27 loss in Florence.

The two-time world champions have lost 11 of 15 Tests during the past year following a landmark first defeat at the hands of the Azzurri and Furlong is braced for a response.

“I saw the result when I came off the pitch,” said the prop.

“They’re a very proud nation. I’m sure they’ll be coming all guns blazing next week.”

British and Irish Lion Furlong became the 109th man to skipper Ireland in the absence of injured fly-half Johnny Sexton.

The world’s top-ranked nation were well below their best on Saturday but recorded an 11th home victory in a row thanks to two tries from Nick Timoney, plus scores from Robert Baloucoune, Mack Hansen and Cian Healy.

“There’s stuff added to your prep that’s just a little bit different but I’ve enjoyed it,” Furlong said of the experience of leading his country.

“It’s a massive privilege for me to be able to represent the group at that level. Thanks to the boss man (Farrell) for giving me the chance. Not many people get to do it.”

Ireland overcame a sloppy start in which they fell behind to Kalaveti Ravouvou’s fourth-minute try to prolong their fine form.

Fiji were a man down for most of a disjointed second half following the dismissal of flanker Albert Tuisue, while Manasa Saulo and Api Ratuniyarawa each spent spells in the sin bin.