The British and Irish Lions’ tour of Australia has concluded. Although Andy Farrell’s team suffered a defeat in their last match of ten games, the psychological challenge of facing the Wallabies in the third test, with the series already defined 2-0 in their favor, was evident.
Australia showcased their best game in the last match, achieving a resounding 22-12 victory in adverse weather conditions in Sydney. A 37-minute delay due to an electrical storm marked the beginning of the second half, flooding the field with rain.
This was a stormy end to a dramatic tour, with eight wins for the Lions, marked by defeats in the opening match against Argentina and the final test.
Given the closing of the tour, the ideal team of the series is presented.
BACK: TOM WRIGHT
The Australian defender surpasses Hugo Keenan, despite the Irishman scoring the try that sealed the series at the MCG. Wright covered 85 meters more than Keenan and beat seven defenders, earning him the recognition. He also demonstrated excellent kicking ability, especially in the second test.
RIGHT WING: MAX JORGENSENJorgensen, 20 years old, had a spectacular performance in the three matches for Australia, scoring memorable tries in the first and third tests, and proving to be one of the most elusive players on the field. In the third test, he ran 94 meters in eight runs, made three clean breaks and beat four defenders.OUTSIDE CENTRE: HUW JONESJones, who was initially not considered for the test series, took possession of the number 13 position for the Lions. He scored a try in the second test and caused defensive problems for Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii. The Australian showed his class with assists in the second and third tests, but is still learning defensively.INSIDE CENTRE: LEN IKITAUIkitau faced strong defenses, standing out in the last match with 13 runs for 29 meters in difficult conditions in Sydney. Sione Tuipulotu had a great first test, while Bundee Aki had a difficult night at Accor Stadium.LEFT WING: JAMES LOWELowe was selected almost for his assistance in Tadhg Beirne’s try in the second test. His tackle on Ikitau, which gave space to Beirne, was crucial. Lowe had good and bad moments in the first two tests, before being replaced by Blair Kinghorn in Sydney. The selection could have been different if Dylan Pietsch had played all three tests.FLY-HALF: FINN RUSSELL
Russell stood out against Tom Lynagh in the first two tests. Playing behind a dominant pack, Russell showed his magic, especially with his passing game. He also made two long penalty kicks in Melbourne. He was one of the Lions who suffered in the last test, but his work was already done. His pass for Sione Tuipulotu’s try in Brisbane was a work of art, worthy of the Player of the Series award.SCRUM-HALF: JAMISON GIBSON-PARK
Gibson-Park, one of the best at the number 9 position, had a brilliant series, controlling the pace and making the right decisions in passes and runs. His speed and precision were key for Russell. Special mention for Tate McDermott, who contributed from the bench and also played 55 minutes on the wing.NO. 8: JACK CONAN
Conan had the most significant involvements in the three tests, with 24 tackles in the victory of the second test. He also assisted in a try in Melbourne and was active on both sides of the field. Harry Wilson was not completely outdone, but Conan had greater contributions.NO. 7: TOM CURRY
Curry proved to be one of the most outstanding players, scoring tries in the first two tests and making a crucial tackle on Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii in Melbourne. Fraser McReight was also strong for Australia, but Curry stood out overall.NO. 6: TADHG BEIRNE
Beirne was named Player of the Series, excelling in both attack and defense. He was the man of the match in Brisbane and a constant contributor in all three games. His finish for the Lions’ fourth try in Melbourne was exceptional.NO. 5: WILL SKELTON
Skelton was key to the change in the Wallabies’ fortunes when he was on the field. The team was 14 points up with him in the last two tests. The veteran was also key to solidifying the Wallabies’ scrum.NO. 4: MARO ITOJE
Itoje secured a place in rugby history, becoming the second winning Lions captain this century. He stood out in the first two tests and was man of the match at the MCG.NO. 3: TADHG FURLONG
Furlong reaffirmed himself as one of the best tighthead props in the game. Although the Lions’ scrum didn’t dominate, Furlong was brilliant in the collision and showed his skills.NO. 2: DAN SHEEHAN
Sheehan was sensational in the first two tests, being key to the Lions’ victory in the series. His speed and hard work are the model for the modern hooker. He scored tries and ran 50 meters in Brisbane.NO. 1: JAMES SLIPPER
Slipper continued to perform at test level, being a rock for Australia in the three tests. He was vital for the dominance in the first half in Melbourne. Andrew Porter was key off the bench, but Farrell didn’t include Genge in the starting eleven in Sydney.Wallabies earned respect after navigating the wildest nights
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Australia 22-12 British and Irish Lions – Third Test Match Report
