Wallabies show 'grit and resilience' ahead of Bok showdown
REACTION: Wallaby coach Joe Schmidt hailed his improving side’s “grit and resilience” on Saturday after they upset the British and Irish Lions to end the three-match series on a high.
Despite the odds being stacked against them, Australia dug deep in a drenched and lightning-hit Sydney, casting aside their disappointment at losing the second Test in Melbourne 26-29.
They came out of the blocks firing with an early try to lead 8-0 and kept up the pressure, never letting the weary Lions get into their attacking groove for a deserved 22-12 win.
After a passive performance in the first Test in Brisbane, Schmidt’s young side went up a level in Melbourne and again in Sydney, auguring well for the future and their upcoming matches against the Springboks in the Rugby Championship.
“I’m just relieved and incredibly proud,” said Schmidt, who was installed to restore Australia’s reputation after a horror 2023 World Cup under Eddie Jones.
“We worked really hard to build that 8-0 lead. Coming off after the lightning could’ve destabilised things, so to stay focused and defend well was a real testament to the players’ character.
“It wasn’t pretty,” he added.
“It was all about grit and resilience. I really admired the way the players came through, they did just enough to get the job done.”
Their performance was all the more encouraging given they were missing flank Rob Valetini, prop Allan Alaalatoa, hooker David Porecki and wing Harry Potter – all first-choice picks.
Victory ensured a winning send-off for retiring scrumhalf Nic White, who played his 73rd and last Test.
“What a game, that had everything,” said White.
“It wasn’t always champagne rugby, but we were committed, and sometimes we were able to use our skill and other times we were desperate.
“It’s pretty nice to finish with a win.”
