THE Irish Schools began their nine-match tour "Down Under" with a hard-earned win over Western Australia Under 19 at Perry Lakes Stadium in Perth yesterday.

"It was a very difficult game. The Australians were a big physical side and our boys showed the effects of jet lag," said the Irish Schools manager Gerry Kelly afterwards.

Ireland ran in two good tries, both scored by right wing Jonathan Davis, whose second late effort put the game beyond Western Australia's reach. His first try, which was not converted, came after 30 minutes as Davis rounded off a good build-up started by number eight Leo Cullen and supported by scrum half Ciaran Scally.

But 10 minutes into the second half, Western Australia hit back. After a series of tapped penalties their lock Robert Smith drove over for a try which Rob Brady converted, to take the lead.

Centre Kevin Hartigan put Ireland back in front just five minutes later with a well-taken drop goal. And just before the final whistle, Davis got in for his second try - which was converted by outhalf Brian O'Mahony - after O'Mahony and centre Eamon Travers had done the ground work.

The next match is against Western Australia Schools on Wednesday, also in Perth.