• International Rules history, results and rules
ALL AUSTRALIAN stars Steve Johnson, Brendon Goddard and Robbie Gray faced a grilling from the Irish media on Thursday as to whether the Australian side would be embarrassed to lose to a group of "amateurs" on Saturday night.
The Australian squad held its first training session at Patersons Stadium in Perth ahead of the one-off International Rules test against Ireland.
Goddard was asked how much of a disappointment it would be if the Australians were to "lose to a bunch of amateurs who have day jobs".
The Essendon star didn't agree with the assertion that Ireland would be easy-beats.
"It's not about being amateurs," Goddard said.
"They're experts in their sport and have the advantage of kicking a round ball, which is quite difficult to us. But we're not using that as an excuse.
"You can classify yourself as amateurs, but we see you guys as pros and experts in your field. You're elite at the game of Gaelic. We're not underestimating Ireland (even) when you chuck the word ‘amateur’ in there."
International Rules has been revived this year with the AFL selecting a team of All Australian players after losing the previous two series.
Gray played in the 2011 series where Australia lost both tests comprehensively was asked if those results were embarrassing.
"Yeah, it definitely was," Gray said.
"We had the opportunity to represent our country, and it was a very disappointing result over the two matches. We're looking to make amends this year and looking to get a good result on Saturday."
Johnson felt there was a fair degree of pressure on the Australian side, given the quality of the team that has been assembled.
"If you look around at our playing list, certainly there's a bit of pressure on us to perform," Johnson said.
"But everyone knows how talented these Irish players are with the round ball.
"We probably haven't had our most talented teams in the last couple of years, and they've really shown us up.
The Australian squad had a recovery day on Wednesday at Cottesloe beach after flying in Tuesday night following their practice match in Sydney.
RULE CHANGES FOR THIS YEAR'S INTERNATIONAL RULES SERIES
*Goalkeepers required to kick out over the 45m line after every over, behind and wide.
*The number of consecutive handballs teams are allowed will be increased from four to six.
*Interchange rotations will be increased from 10 to 15 a quarter
*A mark will no longer be paid from a backwards kick.
