Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan praised his team's versatility after pulling off a brilliant 21-6 win over Australia. Conditions were difficult at Lansdowne Road but O'Sullivan's side emerged victorious after first-half tries from Denis Hickie and Geordan Murphy.

O'Sullivan, whose side overcame South Africa last week, said afterwards: "It was a very different performance to last week, in difficult conditions. I thought we were outstanding, we held onto the ball and didn't give them possession to play with. We were rewarded with two excellent tries.

"We had a job to do in the second half and I think we got the balance right. We were a bit too flamboyant at times but I am happy with the performance.

"It was about being patient with the football. It wasn't pretty but it was effective."

O'Sullivan believes his in-form side can now adapt well to different match situations.

He added: "I suppose we look at all options with the weather conditions and who is on the pitch. We have got strength in terms of personnel and that makes us a balanced side. We can change our gameplan and not be predictable."