Coach Kevin Sheedy has unlocked the door to Australian success in the International Rules series after the home side thrashed Ireland by 36 points in the opening Test match in Perth.

Australia was humbled in last year's series in Ireland, forcing a re-think of the selection policy which previously revolved around the AFL All-Australian team.

Sheedy decided to base this year's side around speed and skill over strength and, in its first attempt, the Australians dominated 2.27.7 (100) to 3.11.13 (64).

Australia's total was the highest kicked by any team since the hybrid concept began back in 1984.

A week spent adjusting to the round ball proved a masterstroke as the confident Australians slotted three-point overs from all angles.

Fleet-footed players such as Aaron Davey, Andrew Lovett, Nathan Eagleton and Luke Hodge were in their element, proving far too quick and agile for their Irish opponents, who came into the match as favourites.

Australia will aim to wrap up the series and the Cormac McAnallen Cup in game two at Telstra Dome next Friday.

The Aussies got off to a fast start on Friday night, with Sydney forwards Nick Davis and Ryan O'Keefe, Brisbane's Chris Johnson and Kangaroo Brent Harvey all kicking early overs.

The pace of the game appeared to rattle the visitors, who spent most of the first term chasing their tails.

The interplay through the middle of the ground, particularly between Hodge, Lovett, Davey and Eagleton, was proving a nightmare for the visitors.

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