The British and Irish Lions tour of Australia concluded. Although Andy Farrell’s team suffered a defeat in the last match of the series, the psychological challenge of facing the third test, with the series already decided 2-0, was considerable.
Australia, for its part, shone and offered its best performance in the last match, achieving a resounding 22-12 victory in adverse weather conditions in Sydney. The match was interrupted by an electrical storm that caused a 37-minute delay in the second half, due to the heavy rains that flooded the field.
This was a stormy end to a tour marked by emotion, with eight wins for the Lions, and two losses in the initial matches and the final test.
Here’s the ideal team of the series, according to Alofoke Deportes’ analysis:Tom Curry of the British & Irish Lions grapples with Australia players Harry Wilson, center, Taniela Tupou, left, and Len Ikitau, right. Brendan Moran/Sportsfile via Getty Images
Ideal Series Team
Defense: Tom Wright
The Wallabies’ winger outperforms Hugo Keenan, despite the Irishman’s decisive try at the MCG. Wright demonstrated a great performance in the three tests, running 85 meters more than Keenan and beating seven defenders. In addition, his kicking game was excellent in the second test.
Right Wing: Max Jorgensen
Jorgensen, 20 years old, had three spectacular matches for Australia, scoring memorable tries in the first and third tests, proving to be one of the most elusive players. In the third test, he ran 94 meters in eight runs, made three clean breaks and beat four defenders.
External Center: Huw Jones
Jones, initially considered a remote possibility, took ownership of the number 13 jersey for the Lions. He took advantage of the opportunities presented to him, scoring a try in the second test and creating defensive problems for Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii. The Australian showed his class with assists in the second and third tests.
Interior Center: Len Ikitau
Ikitau stood firm, making 13 runs for 29 meters in the difficult conditions of Sydney. Sione Tuipulotu had an outstanding first test, but was not considered again, while Bundee Aki had a complicated night at Accor Stadium.
Left Wing: James Lowe
Lowe was key with his assist for Tadhg Beirne’s try in the second test. His game was mixed in the first two tests, before being replaced by Blair Kinghorn in Sydney. The selection could have been different if Wallabies winger Dylan Pietsch had played all three tests.
Opening: Finn Russell
Russell excelled in the first two tests, showcasing his magic and excellent passing game. His kick in Melbourne was crucial. Although he had a difficult final test in Sydney, his previous performance was outstanding. His pass for Sione Tuipulotu’s try in Brisbane was exceptional.
Scrum Half: Jamison Gibson-Park
Gibson-Park had a brilliant series, controlling the pace of the game with precision in his passes and runs. His speed and accuracy were fundamental for Russell. The Wallabies’ Tate McDermott also had a significant impact.
No. 8: Jack Conan
Conan had a standout performance in the three tests, with 24 tackles in the victory of the second test. He also made an assist in Melbourne and was consistent on both sides of the ball.
No. 7: Tom Curry
Curry proved to be one of the most outstanding players, scoring tries and making a crucial defensive tackle in Melbourne. His performance was crucial.
No. 6: Tadhg Beirne
Beirne was named player of the series. He was a force in attack and defense, being named the best player of the match in Brisbane.
No. 5: Will Skelton
Skelton was fundamental to the resurgence of the Wallabies, generating a significant impact on the field. His presence changed the course of the team.
No. 4: Maro Itoje
Itoje cemented his place in rugby history, being the second winning captain of the Lions in this century. His performance was outstanding in the first two tests.
No. 3: Tadhg Furlong
Furlong remained one of the best tighthead props, showcasing his skill in the collisions and his notable technique.
No. 2: Dan Sheehan
Sheehan was sensational in the first two tests, demonstrating his agility and tactical knowledge. His combination of speed, physique, and hard work defines him as the prototype of the modern hooker.
No. 1: James Slipper
Slipper, an Australian rugby veteran, maintained a consistent performance across the three tests, being key to Australia’s game.
Andy Farrell’s decision to promote Andrew Porter was key in Melbourne, with the excellent performance of the Englishman from the bench. However, Farrell did not achieve the same dynamic by not including Genge in the starting team in Sydney.
