Australia defeated Ireland in the the third and final Test of the 2006 Junior International Rules series to take overall victory in the three-Test event.

The deciding game ended 45-30 to the home side at the Freemantle Oval in Perth as Australia adapted better to the sweltering conditions to build up a commanding early lead, which they would not relinquish.

They led 25-10 by half-time and then dominated the third- quarter before Ireland rallied in the final-quarter to ensure a more respectable scoreline by the finish.

Dubliner Kevin Nolan's prominence throughout the game was rewarded with his nomination as Irish man of the match, while Pearse Hanley of Mayo, who kicked 13 points yesterday, won the Barazzi Medal as Irish player of the series.

The Australians took the series as the two underage teams had drawn the first two Tests games, which were played in Melbourne and Adelaide, respectively, over the past week.

FIRST TEST (Melbourne): Ireland 39, Australia 39.

SECOND TEST (Adelaide): Ireland 35, Australia 35.

THIRD TEST (Perth): Ireland 30, Australia 45.