Australia win can be ‘launch-pad’ for Ireland

Jack Conan

Jack Conan believes Saturday’s 46-19 win over Australia can be a “launch-pad” for Ireland going forward.

After a loss to New Zealand and under-par victory over Japan, Ireland were rampant as they recorded a record victory over the Wallabies.

Andy Farrell’s side take on South Africa in their final autumn match on 22 November (17:40 GMT).

Conan, who started at number eight against Australia, said it was an “unbelievably enjoyable” performance.

“To be at home and put in that performance on a Saturday night when the atmosphere was unreal, we had some really good moments and it was a real stepping stone, the best performance we’ve had in the last few weeks,” he said.

“It’s a brilliant launch-pad for next week.”

Conan, 33, said Ireland always believed they would be able to hit top form in November and said you are not “playing against mugs” in international rugby.

Mack Hansen was the star of the show against Australia as he scored a 27-minute hat-trick on his return to the Ireland team after injury.

Caelan Doris, Ryan Baird and Robbie Henshaw also touched down for Ireland as they blew away Joe Schmidt’s Wallabies.

“You always want to be playing well but the reality of international rugby is that it won’t always go your way. You are playing good teams,” Conan said.

“There were bits over the last few weeks that went really well for us, and bits that didn’t but that’s always the case whether you win or lose.

“We’re happy with today’s performance, but there’s still going to be loads of learnings and things we didn’t get right.

“You aren’t playing against mugs. You are playing against teams who are unbelievably motivated and want to go well. We played our game and it paid dividends as well.”