Lions Test defeat in 2009 sparked a fierce comeback

Wallabies Face Uphill Battle to Level the Series Against the Lions

The contrast between two incidents from the past week highlights the challenge awaiting the Wallabies on Saturday. In the first Test in Brisbane, Tom Curry’s high tackle on Tom Lynagh went unchallenged by Australia’s players—an opportunity missed. Days later, after Darcy Graham was hit high early in the game, Owen Farrell immediately intervened, sending a clear message: his team wouldn’t tolerate such play. This is part of why teammates hold him in such high regard.

Simply put, the Wallabies must be more aggressive if they are to even the series. Their passiveness in Brisbane must be corrected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Their current situation reminds me of the Lions in 2009, when a poor first Test in Durban saw them overpowered at scrum time. I still recall John Smit’s early try, coming after relentless South African carries through the defensive line.

A particularly sharp Monday debrief followed. Defense coach Shaun Edwards replayed the sequence, showing how each Springbok had gained ground before Smit broke through two tacklers. Edwards called it among the worst defensive starts he’d ever witnessed in Test rugby. That set the tone for the second Test, remembered for its intensity. Simon Shaw, the towering lock, stood out despite the loss. The Wallabies will hope Will Skelton can make a similar impact.

Trailing 1-0, focus narrows to these 80 minutes. The gameplan shouldn’t be complicated, but effort must be uncompromising—emotionally, physically, and in work rate. Every play must be contested, yet without overcommitting or losing discipline. The consequences of failure are stark.

Though Australia underperformed last week, the Lions will prepare for their strongest possible response. Nobody plans for past weaknesses—only present threats. I expect a fierce Wallaby resurgence, and oddly, part of me hopes for it—something I’ve never felt about facing New Zealand or South Africa.