Aussies learned from Ulster strategies: Stynes

AN analysis of Ulster footballing defensive strategies was a key element in the tactics employed by the Australians in the International Rules Series opener in Perth.

Team advisor Jim Stynes said they also learned invaluable lessons in last year's defeat in the way Ireland ran the ball, the manner in which they controlled the space down the middle of the field and the impressive way they linked up.

The priority was to inject speed into their team and after that to get them to play in a certain way. His brother Brian, who is now living in Melbourne, was brought in to help in the planning and preparations. "He was really good at that because he understood that concept of playing. We learned it from watching Tyrone play in the All-Ireland and watching the teams up north in particular playing that defensive style of game.