Ulster's generous offering of spirit and courage was not enough to conquer the flair and invention of a technically superior Australian side at Ravenhill on Saturday night.

The home team, anxious to regain lost pride following their dismal display against Leinster, coped efficiently in the first half but yielded too much possession after the interval and ultimately paid the penalty.

Australia, who always gave the impression they had something in reserve, defended stoutly when the home side threatened and then maximised three try-scoring opportunities in the second half that proved crucial to their success.

Two Chris Lyons penalties had given Australia a 6-0 interval lead but after Chris Siale went in for Australia's first try early in the second half the home defence began to creek ominously. Despite the best efforts of the half-backs and the work-rate of their pack, Ulster were unable to contain the visitors adventurous running and when Chris Kennedy added a second try which Lyons converted, Ulster were in deeper trouble.

Joel Slator swept in for Australia's third try near the finish with Lyons again converting to give his side a comfortable victory.