Ireland battled back from behind to defeat Australia 33-31, with five Kildare players featuring in the victory.
Ireland launched their Nations Championship campaign with a dramatic 33-31 victory over Australia after a stunning second-half comeback in Sydney.
Thomas Clarkson's late try, converted by Sam Prendergast, proved decisive as Andy Farrell's side overturned a second-half deficit to secure a memorable opening win.
There was a strong Kildare presence in the Irish squad, with Sam and Cian Prendergast, Jamie Osborne, Jimmy O'Brien and Tadhg Beirne all featuring.
Cian Prendergast crossed for Ireland's opening try, while his brother Sam kicked four conversions, including the match-winning effort in the closing minutes.
Ireland trailed by five points at half-time and again entered the closing stages behind, but relentless late pressure paid off as Clarkson powered over to complete the comeback.
The victory gives Ireland a winning start to the Nations Championship ahead of next weekend's clash with Japan.
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