Overview
- The Lions surged to a 17-5 halftime lead through dominant scrums and mauls before early second-half strikes set the tone for their 27-19 victory.
- The Wallabies rallied in the final quarter with two late tries but were unable to overcome the Lions’ first-half cushion.
- Australia-born centre Sione Tuipulotu scored the opening try in the ninth minute and flyhalf Finn Russell added three conversions and a penalty.
- Ireland flanker Tadhg Beirne recorded 23 tackles and was named player of the match for his work at the breakdown.
- With their pack hurt by injuries to Rob Valetini and Will Skelton, the Wallabies must rethink their forward selections ahead of next Saturday’s second Test at the MCG.