Australia defeated Ireland in the first of its two-match International Rules series overnight and Bomber Blake Caracella was the star of the show.

Caracella, a late addition to the squad, kicked a hat-trick of three pointers midway through the final quarter to set up the victory.

Australia had trailed for much of the match before eventually running out winners - 0.14.13 (55) to 1.11.8 (47).

Ireland had led by us much as 12 points late in the third quarter before Caracella unleashed his match-winning burst.

His three overs (above the crossbar and between the goals) brought the scores back to 46-all.

The match, which was played in front of 38,016 fans, was then sewn up with both Brad Johnson and Brent Harvey adding overs in the dying minutes.

Australian captain James Hird was another fine contributor. He added an over late in the third quarter to keep the Australians in touch.

Justin Blumfield also contributed an over in the opening minute of the second half. With Damien Hardwick at his uncompromising best across the half-back line, the Essendon players made a very significant contribution to the Australian win.

The second and final match of the series will be played on October 15th and provided the Australians don't lose by more than eight points they will take the series on aggregate.