Gaelic Games: The elements have been an implacable enemy of International Rules, with lousy weather striking for the third successive year. But earlier in the day the Irish players were happy - wet conditions would complicate the Australians' attempts to control the round ball.

But rain also discouraged what would have been a full house, given that Melbourne's famous walk-up crowd became an "I-don't-fancy-going-out-in-that" crowd. Yet over 60,000 braved the night and created a carnival atmosphere at the beginning of a hectic weekend with rugby and the Melbourne Cup still to come.

There was something for everyone in the MCG last night but a bit more for Australia, who made history by winning a home series for the first time. Despite the heavy first-test defeat a week ago, Ireland's defiance ensured the series went to the wire, the holders winning on aggregate by seven points.

"I would compliment Australia on the way they wore us down," said Ireland manager John O'Keeffe. "It was a big ask to reverse a 10-point lead and I think it's obvious that we lost the series in Perth. Some people asked questions about the team because the emphasis was on skill rather than physique. But with a big heart and good legs you can make that up."

O'Keeffe was mystified by the penalty that gave Australia their only goal. "I can't figure out the reason for it but the call changed the game."

O'Keeffe's tenure is now up after two years as manager and four previously as a selector.

"I told the players today," he said, "that this was my last involvement with the Irish team and I can't see that changing even though I really do enjoy this and have seen the game evolve.

"This game definitely has a future. It's up to the powers-that-be and there is a tradition in Ireland that you get your two years and move on. It's unlikely that will change. I don't know."

He was definite about one thing. "What should happen now is that this should become a three-test series. It would make a lot of sense." The third test has been under discussion between the AFL and GAA but the Australian team didn't seem too enthused.

"Three is probably a bit long," said captain Shane Crawford. "It would be very difficult. Three weeks is a long time to put a lot of effort into and to get back for a week or so off before training starts. Two's fair."

Brent Harvey, Australia's player of the series, disclosed he's already done a pre-season bleep test at his club, Kangaroos. He also granted media an insight into his mental preparation for the vital penalty. "I was thinking Chris Johnson kicked one in Perth but then - aw stuff it, I'll have a go."

Winning manager Garry Lyon, now Australia's most successful manager, said that next year's trip to Ireland would be his last. "That'll see me out. Two terms is long enough."

The performances of Graham Canty and Steven McDonnell particularly caught the eye of the local media and Lyon expressed surprise that more Irish players weren't figuring in the AFL.

"When you look at Jimmy Stynes and Tadhg Kennelly I'm surprised there aren't 15 or 20 that haven't been tried. They've got what it takes for the game."

Meanwhile, it was announced at the pre-match dinner in Melbourne that the series will continue to at least 2010.