Australia win can be 'launchpad' for Ireland

Jack Conan believes Saturday's 46-19 win over Australia can be a "launchpad" for Ireland going forward.

After a loss to New Zealand and under-par victory over Japan, Ireland were rampant as they recorded a record victory over the Wallabies.

Andy Farrell's side take on South Africa in their final November match on 22 November.

Conan, who started at number eight against Australia, said it was an "unbelievably enjoyable" performance.

"To be at home and put in that performance on a Saturday night when the atmosphere was unreal, we had some really good moments and it was a real stepping stone, the best performance we've had in the last few weeks," he said.

"It's a brilliant launchpad for next week."

Conan, 33, said Ireland always believed they would be able to hit top form in November and said you are not "playing against mugs" in international rugby.

Mack Hansen was the star of the show against Australia as he scored a 27-minute hat-trick on his return to the Ireland team after injury.

Caelan Doris, Ryan Baird and Robbie Henshaw also touched down for Ireland as they blew away Joe Schmidt's Wallabies.

"You always want to be playing well but the reality of international rugby is that it won't always go your way. You are playing good teams," Conan said.

"There were bits over the last few weeks that went really well for us, and bits that didn't but that's always the case whether you win or lose.

"We're happy with today's performance, but there's still going to be loads of learnings and things we didn't get right.

"You aren't playing against mugs. You are playing against teams who are unbelievably motivated and want to go well. We played our game and it paid dividends as well."

South Africa 'changing the game'

Ireland round off their autumn against world champions South Africa, who Conan says are "deservedly the best in the world".

After winning the Rugby Championship, the Springboks have won all three of their November matches in the northern hemisphere and will look to claim a tour clean sweep in Dublin after wins over Japan at Wembley, France and Italy.

Ireland famously stunned South Africa in the group stages of the 2023 World Cup before the Springboks rallied to win the tournament, and the sides drew a summer series in 2024.

"They are a good team, aren't they?" Conan said.

"You can see what they are doing with the bench and how they apply their forwards.

"They are changing the game and it is great to see. It's innovation, it's interesting and it's getting eyeballs on the game."

The biggest concern for the Springboks has been discipline in their last two matches. Lood de Jager was sent off for a reckless tackle against France, and Franco Mostert was dismissed on Saturday against the Italians.

Despite being a man down for the majority of both matches, Rassie Erasmus' side came through to win both times.

"They are going really well. They were probably disappointed with their red cards over the last few weeks but they are an unbelievably physical side and deservedly the best in the world," Leinster back row Conan added.

"They will be a huge challenge for us and we love a challenge. We love having to be better.

"It's probably never been as enjoyable to play for Ireland as it has been right now."