9.43 – Good morning from a sunny Brisba… well, no we’re back at base. Maybe next time.

But we’re very much looking forward to this showdown anyway.

Manager Anthony Tohill says Ireland are ready for an expected increased level of physicality. You just know this will get nasty if the Aussies fail to claw back some or all of that 44-point deficit. Strap yourselves in, we’re currently at the anthems.

Let’s have your predictions in the meantime…

9.52 – Donegal sharp-shooter Michael Murphy was impressive last time out and he’s started the day for Ireland with a behind. Robinson replied for the Aussies with one of his own before Murphy clatters into another AFL player, head-high almost.

This is going to be a bruiser.

9.56 – Tadhg Kennelly forced a save from the Aussie ‘keeper Suckling when he might have hopes to do better, then it all kicked off between Robinson and McKeever again and in the meantime, skipper Brad Green has tacked on another three points.

Ireland need to get going soon.

10.00 – Unbelievable mark from Donaghy right on the edge of the square – if that’s what we’re calling it -  after a high ball in from Murphy. The Kerry man knocks it over for the three.

10.56 – Tommy Walsh seems to be ready to come back on after he hobbled off earlier. There’s some tough tackling, off-the-ball stuff and good defending at the moment.

As I type Hanley is sent to the sin bin for some messing on the ground with Monfries. It’s getting niggly, if it wasn’t already.

11.02 – The niggle has been turned up to 11. The Irish had the ball in the net after a lovely move: Donaghy patted down a long ball down for McDonnell and he ‘soccered’ it home. The play was called back for more off-the-ball stuff though.

And as I type, McKeever is off after a little kick on an Aussie as he was pushed. He joins Hanley in the sin bin.

11.05 – All in! Joe McMahon took a nasty knee to the back as he tried to make the mark in the air.

He’s still on the ground and looks winded, understandably. His team-mates were straight in to make their case though no real punches were thrown. Yet.

11.23 – Tommy Walsh shanked an over attempt well wide moments ago but almost immediately afterwards he made amends with a three-pointer. The Kerryman was dragged down when following up on work from Donaghy in front of the posts.

Seven minutes left.

11.33 – IRELAND WIN THE SERIES

That’s the hooter – and the Irish will bring home the cup – after a superb effort.

As the cliche goes, they can only beat what’s in front of them. And despite the paucity of Aussie effort and skill at times, they’ve done that.

Thanks for your company. We’ll have reaction and images from the Gold Coast later in the morning.