Ireland lose epic encounter

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The lead changed hands six times before the appropriately named Esikeli Tonga pounced for the match-deciding try seven minutes from the end of a thrill-a-minute encounter.

The outcome was tough on the brave Irish and especially winger Damien Blanch, whose hat-trick of tries was all in vain.

Ireland coach Andy Kelly had complained that his side had not been given the respect they deserved in the build-up to their opening game, but they left to a standing ovation after playing their part in a match that will live long in the memory.

Ireland stood up to a ferocious onslaught by the bigger Tongan forwards and showed they can play football by matching their star-studded opponents try for try.

In the end, it came down to goalkicking, with Pat Richards landing just two of his four conversion attempts on the ground where he made his NRL debut.