THE Ireland Schools side that went through Australia with a loo per cent record arrived home yesterday and got a reception at Dublin Airport in keeping with their achievements. The party, led by IRFU president Bobby Deacy and team manager Gerry Kelly, were greeted by a big crowd and a band playing "Congratulations.

Not alone did Ireland win the Test and thus beat Australia, traditionally the strongest of all school sides, for the first time, but in winning all nine matches, the team scored 395 points and conceded only 70. Ireland also captured the Triple Crown in April and thus won 12 matches in a row, a feat not previously attained by any other Irish side at any level.

That puts this team's achievements in perspective and the IRFU president was rich in his praise for the players and the back up team of Gerry Kelly, coach Keith Patton, assistant coach John McClean, and the medical personnel, Ossie Fogarty and Gareth Callaghan.

Deacy said: "The manner in which they fought back to win the Test made it a very proud day for Irish rugby. The game is having its problems but the achievements of this team and the win by the under 21 side in the Triple Crown series last season must give reason for great optimism. These players will be well counsel led in relation to the future."

Kelly commented: "We could not have asked for a better collection of players. Their achievements on the field were magnificent and they were a great credit to this country."

"The players did all we asked of them and adapted splendidly to the conditions and the game as it is played and interpreted in Australia," said Patton. "Their attitude was exemplary in every possible respect."

Team captain Barry Gibney, who now goes on to study at UCD, said: "Obviously winning the Test was the highlight and the whole tour was a wonderful experience."