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Slipper (22'), Gordon (28'), Wright (30')
Tries
Sheehan (15'), Curry (34'), Jones (37'), Beirne (59'), Keenan (79')
Lynagh (28')
Conversions
Russell (38', 60')
Lynagh (4', 10', 53')
Penalties
Wallabies players, coaches and fans were left devasted by a 79th minute try to British & Irish Lions fullback Hugo Keenan that clinched the game and the Series in favour of the Lions. Storming back from 23-7 down, the Lions showed their class by mounting a comeback and stealing the lead just before the final whistle, breaking Wallabies hearts in the process.
The Wallbies were outstanding throughout the match riding the energy of the fans in the MCG, where more than 90,000 turned out to see an enthralling test in Melbourne. The Wallabies had their chances but let the Lions wrestle thier way back into the match through missed opportunities and poor game sense. The Lions were class when they had the ball in hand, scoring four unanswered tries to win the test.
1. James Slipper – 7/10 While his work rate in the loose was as tireless as ever—getting through a mountain of ruck work and making his tackles—he was part of a front row that was under immense pressure at scrum time, conceding penalties at crucial moments. Scored a crucial try in the 22nd minute to give the Wallabies the ascendency in the first half.
2. Dave Porecki – 6/10 A solid return from injury for the hooker. His primary role was to provide a stable set-piece, and he delivered on that front, with clean and accurate throwing at the lineout. Defensively, he was as dependable as ever, making some crucial chop tackles in tight. However, his attacking contributions with ball in hand were limited, understandable given his recent layoff.
3. Allan Alaalatoa – 7/10 Alaalatoa was a bedrock at tighthead, absorbing significant pressure and providing the only real stability in a struggling scrum. His tireless defensive work rate and vocal presence helped keep the forward pack organised, showing his value as a leader in that forward pack.
4. Nick Frost – 6/10 A reliable and hardworking performance from the lock. Frost was a go-to target at the lineout, ensuring the Wallabies had a consistent source of possession there. He was relentlessly busy in the rucks and made a high number of tackles, doing all the "dirty work". He didn't produce a game-breaking moment, but his consistency was one of the few positives.
5. Will Skelton – 8/10 A significant physical presence who brought his experience to the fore. Skelton’s sheer size was a factor in maul defence, helping to disrupt the Lions' powerful driving game. His offloading and ability to draw in multiple defenders were valuable in open play, and he consistently put his body on the line to slow down the Lions’ momentum in key defensive moments.
6. Rob Valetini – 8/10 A genuine force of nature in the back row. Valetini consistently carried with purpose and power, making metres post-contact and creating front-foot ball for his team in a game where it was scarce. He bent the defensive line repeatedly and his sheer presence seemed to inspire the players around him. He showed why he is considered one of the Wallabies' most vital players.
7. Fraser McReight – 6.5/10 A typical high-energy performance from the openside flanker. McReight was a constant nuisance at the breakdown, applying pressure and forcing the Lions to commit extra numbers, even if he didn't get the turnover rewards he so often hunts for. His support play and relentless work rate around the park were tireless, but the Wallabies' lack of momentum meant his contributions were often in a losing battle.
8. Harry Wilson (capt) – 7.5/10 The captain led from the front with an oustanding performance. His link play was sharp, and he demonstrated strong leadership through his tireless work rate and commanding presence. He was at the heart of the Wallabies' most positive moments, both with ball in hand and in defence. You could see on his face post-match how much this loss hurt.
9. Jake Gordon – 6.5/10 Gordon enjoyed a lively and impactful first half, demonstrating good decision-making from the base of the ruck. His quick, accurate service allowed the Wallabies to play with tempo, and he showed excellent opportunism to snipe through for a crucial try that further extended Australia's lead.
10. Tom Lynagh – 7.5/10 Lynagh steered the ship calmly, kicked with accuracy, and wasn't afraid to take the line on. He was targeted frequently in defense and under the high ball but never shirked the contact. Looked more confident than last week and grew into the match.
11. Harry Potter – 3/10 Showed good intent and energy early, but was forced off early with a hamstring injury. With a 6-2 split on the bench, this was worst case scenario for the Wallabies, who were to put reserve scrumhalf Tate McDermott on the wing for the remainder of the game.
12. Len Ikitau – 7/10 Ikitau was a rock in defence, making crucial tackles and organising the midfield channel effectively. He provided much-needed stability to the backline, particularly linking up well with Jospe. He didn't get many opportunities to showcase his attacking flair but fulfilled his defensive duties with aplomb.
13. Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii – 6.5/10 Show what he can do with ball in hand given enough space. Suaalii’s undeniable physical presence was undeniable, but he made a couple of defensive reads that exposed his lack of experience defending in the 13 jersey. The Wallabies are clearly invested in his long-term potential, but this performance highlighted the significant learning curve he is on. Patience is key.
14. Max Jorgensen – 7/10 One of the key attacking threats in the Wallabies' backline. Jorgensen once again showcased his pace and ability under the high ball. He looked dangerous with every touch of the ball and was one of the few players to consistently ask questions of the Lions' defence. He is growing with every cap and is a genuine bright spot for the team.
15. Tom Wright – 6.5/10 Wright was safe and reliable under the high ball, and he tried to inject himself into the attack wherever possible. His stunning try put the Wallabies in a commanding lead by the 30th minute.
Replacements:
16. Billy Pollard – 5.5/10 Came on in the 56th minute and performed his core duties well, with accurate lineout throwing. Beyond that, he didn’t have a significant impact in general play.
17. Angus Bell – 7/10 An excellent impact from the bench. Bell brought a tangible energy and aggression in tight. He made strong carries and showed he can offer dynamic and powerful performance.
18. Tom Robertson – 6/10 A reliable and dependable shift off the pine. He contributed to the improved scrum and made his tackles, providing a quiet but effective presence to see out the game.
19. Jeremy Williams – 6/10 Got stuck into the physical contest and was prominent in the trenches with his tackling and ruck work.
20. Langi Gleeson – 7.5/10 Brought some much-needed go-forward to the forward pack. His powerful carries off the bench were one of the more effective interventions of the night and he looked hungry for work.
21. Carlo Tizzano – 6/10 Threw himself into the breakdown and maintained the tempo, and came up with a big turnover. Was cleared out in the 79th minute of the match by Jac Morgan, which proved a crucial moment in the series.
22. Tate McDermott – 7.5/10 An outstanding performance from Tate considering he had to cover wing for most of the test. Relying on his Sevens days, is sniping down the sidelines caught many by suprise.
23. Ben Donaldson – N/A With the game in the balance, Schmidt opted to leave Donaldson on the bench.
