AUSTRALIA must play the upcoming Toyota International Rules Series in the right spirit, according to coach Mick Malthouse.

The 2007 series was cancelled by the Irish Gaelic Athletic Association due to the violent scenes which marred the 2006 series, but Malthouse was keen to point out that both sides need to be committed to keeping the series friendly.

“We have a fundamental obligation to ensure that this series is continued because we’ve played it in the right spirit and we’ve conducted ourselves in the right manner,” Malthouse said.

“The coaches and players will be aware of the fact that for this series to continue [depends on] the way we conduct ourselves and also the Irish.

“Let’s not forget that it takes two to tango. There’s going to be two sides out there.

“We haven’t gone out of our way not to pick aggressive players. There are rules in place that state that you can tackle and you can bump when the opportunity arises. You’ve still got to run hard at the football.”

Malthouse insisted that players “with an understanding of sportsmanship” had been picked to represent their country.

“We’re out there to win this game of football and we’ll play absolutely to the rules but those rules are quite broad and we’ll play the physical game that’s required, or the running game or the possession game - whatever is required at the time.”

The Collingwood coach praised Irish coach Sean Boylan’s initiative in hiring former Irish rugby union player Trevor Brennan to assist with tackling technique.

“I applaud them for the smartness of thinking this is going to be a game that could be won or lost because of dispossessing the opposition.

“The game is open to tackling so if you’re going to hone in on your skills, you’ve got to hone in on all aspects, so if one of them is tackling then so be it.

“It’s like us with the kicking. This is a new ball we’re kicking with. We won’t be as good as the Irish with kicking, whereas our young blokes have been tackling since they played underage football.”

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The 2008 Toyota International Rules Series: Australia v Ireland

First Test – Subiaco, Perth, Friday 24 October
Second Test – MCG, Melbourne, Friday 31 October

Tickets on sale now at ticketmaster.com.au, by calling 1300 136 122 or at a Ticketmaster outlet.

For full coverage of the 2008 series, click here.
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