BIG MACK & TRIES

Mack The Knife cuts the Wallabies to shreds as Farrell's Ireland attack dines out on the Men Down Under

- DEREK FOLEY

A first start at No15, a three-try first half-hour and the Man of the Match of the Match award - that's Mack the Knife.

When the line formed on the right boys, that’s when we know that Mack, he's back in town!

Andy Farrell got it right, the returning Mack Hansen was killer, even Joe Schmidt acknowledged he has been the best ‘Australian’ on the pitch.

Hansen's hat-trick was dynamite, giving Ireland an impetus they wouldn't give up, but it was merely atop a notable rewiring following the disappointing opening two November games against the All Blacks and Japan.

Moving Caelan Doris to No7, freeing up one of the world’s cleverest rugby brains, looks like being adopted long term while Jack Conan anchored No8, the duo allowing room for Ryan Baird's dynamism at No6.

Selecting Sam Prendergast at out-half also provided dividends, the 22 Leinster star was the dominant No10 on the pitch, his attacking play a beacon. Yes, there is a defensive issue — can we get him sent to this famed Tackle School?

In context, it was surprising to hear speculation through last week that Prendergast was only there at out-half, minding the jersey for Jack Crowley to start against South Africa this weekend.