This British & Irish Lions tour has come alive in more ways than one, following an explosive second Test in Melbourne where the series was won with a 79th-minute try to Hugo Keenan. The fallout from the last-gasp match winner has been discussed the world over, but the game proved that the Wallabies were a worthy tour opponent, with world-class talent across the park.
This British & Irish Lions tour has come alive in more ways than one, following an explosive second Test in Melbourne where the series was won with a 79th-minute try to Hugo Keenan. The fallout from the last-gasp match winner has been discussed the world over, but the game proved that the Wallabies were a worthy tour opponent, with world-class talent across the park.
After a week in which UK media reports speculated about the value of a tour to Australia, the Wallabies came out with fire in their bellies—scoring three tries to build a commanding lead approaching half-time. But it was the Lions who showed what happens when the best of Europe combine forces, roaring back into the game with ruthless execution and brilliant finishing to stage an epic comeback.
While the series may now be decided, there will be no shortage of motivation for Joe Schmidt’s men as they look to prevent a whitewash on home soil. But where do the Wallabies go from here? Things quickly unravelled in the second half, and Schmidt must once again grapple with the right selections and tactics to get a win in this series.
Wallabies’ Game Sense
Despite the controversy, the Wallabies simply couldn’t close out the match effectively. It’s been a persistent theme in their narrow losses.
The game management in the back end of the second half was conservative and uninspired, exposing the Wallabies’ lack of game leaders. Who can Schmidt draft in for the third Test to step up and show some direction when everyone else’s energy is spent? Now might be the perfect time to bring back James O’Connor.
Stick With the Young Gun
Following the second Test, there have been calls to drop Lynagh for the third game. But Lynagh has been thrown into the cauldron of the biggest rugby event on Australian soil in a decade. All you can ask is for him to perform his role and for a 22-year-old flyhalf, he has performed admirably. He’s shown toughness throughout the series and has supported the backs outside him well.
To drop him now would be unfair. The Wallabies were one minute away from a series decider, and the blame can’t be placed on his shoulders. With more experience, Lynagh has the temperament to grow into a world-class pivot who could serve the Wallabies for years to come.
Time to Experiment?
There’s still plenty to play for in this series, but Schmidt will likely look to tweak his lineup. The 6–2 bench split was a bold move for a series decider, and while McDermott performed admirably on the wing to cover for Potter’s injury, it showed that even the best-laid plans can go awry.
With Schmidt likely to return to a 5–3 bench, it opens the door for some returning players to get game time. Dylan Pietsch has been waiting in the wings and may even earn a start in place of Potter, while Aidan Ross has been added to the squad. It could also be Lukhan Salakaia-Loto’s moment, he’s been itching for another crack at the Lions in a gold jersey.
Keeping the Faith
You could see the hurt and disappointment on the Wallabies players’ faces after the final whistle. Australia is no stranger to last-minute heartbreak, but this one hit differently. Skipper Harry Wilson had tears in his eyes and said he wasn’t in the “right emotional state” to answer post-match questions on the field.
Losses like this take a toll, even on professional athletes. Schmidt and his team leaders will have to find a way to rally the group and get them back into battle mode. Otherwise, the scoreline could get ugly very quickly in the final Test.
