Australia VS Ireland in 20 minutes

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A BIG crowd is gathering at Subiaco Oval in Perth for the First Test in the 2008 Toyota International Rules Series between Australia and Ireland.

It's the first meeting of the teams since 2006 in Ireland, after which the Irish suspended the annual series after concerns about Australia's aggressive approach.

But fences have been mended, and the Irish have brought a tall and strong squad to take on the Australians in two tests - the second will be held at the MCG next Friday night.

Australia has named Adelaide defender Nathan Bock as goalkeeper, a critical position in the hybrid game, while Brisbane Lions utility Colm Begley will line up for the visitors.

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AAP Sports News (Australia)
10-08-2008
AFL: Australia will hit Ireland hard, but fair - Malthouse

By Sam Lienert

MELBOURNE, Oct 8 AAP - Australian coach Mick Malthouse will not ask his players to
rein in their natural aggression despite the future of International Rules depending on
their behaviour.

Australia named a 25-man squad packed with youth and pace for the upcoming two-match
series against Ireland at Subiaco Oval on October 24 and the MCG on October 31.

The series is a revival of the concept after it was shelved because of Irish anger
over on-field violence by Australian players when it was last played two years ago.

Malthouse said he was mindful that the spirit in which ...