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If Australia's footballers play as tough as they talk, Ireland is in for a rough time in Friday night's second International Rules Series Test at Metricon Stadium.

Since losing by a record 44 points in last week's opening encounter at Etihad Stadium, the Aussies have expressed genuine disappointment at their meek showing.

On Monday coach Rodney Eade promised a more competitive game this week, while North Melbourne midfielder Andrew Swallow said Australia needed to be more physical and "play the way we do when we play AFL".

Prior to Tuesday's first training session at Metricon, it was Angus Monfries' turn to talk tough.

He said Eade and the rest of the team were flat after the first Test and had spoken about where they could improve.

"I think that was something we lacked last Friday, was some intensity, and … we'll be working on that," Monfries said.

"We probably didn't play to our strengths. That's (physicality) our game week to week and they're probably not used to it, but they beat us in that area so we've definitely got to improve that on Friday.

"We pride ourselves on being tough and winning those things, so to get beaten in it was disappointing."

With a lack of superstar appeal and a first-up capitulation, some critics have claimed the series is losing its appeal, but the Essendon midfielder disagreed.

He said wearing the Australian colours was a rare privilege and the players were hell-bent on winning, not on having a Gold Coast holiday.

"As you saw last Friday night we were a bit scratchy with the round ball but I think session by session everyone's improving and we're looking forward to putting together a better performance this Friday night," Monfries said.

"The speed of the game as well, no stoppages, just non-stop up and back running, is something we have to adapt to as well."