Sleepless Nights Ahead for Schmidt as First Lions Test Looms
NEW SOUTH WALES, AUSTRALIA, JUL 6 – Australia narrowly defeated Fiji 21-18 in a physical match with a late try, testing both teams ahead of the British and Irish Lions series starting mid-July, officials said.
- The Wallabies secured a narrow 21-18 victory over Fiji in Newcastle on July 6, 2025, ahead of their Lions Test series.
- Coach Joe Schmidt attributed the close result to limited preparation time, having only five trainings after six months apart.
- Fiji dominated the second half and exploited Wallabies' missed scoring chances and crooked lineout throws that hindered scoreboard pressure.
- Harry Wilson scored the match-winning try in the 78th minute, with Ben Donaldson converting to complete the comeback in a tense finish.
- The win exposed issues with fundamentals and injuries, including Noah Lolesio's concussion, leaving Schmidt with multiple concerns before the Lions Tests on July 19.
17 Articles
17 Articles
Sleepless nights ahead for Schmidt as first Lions test looms
SYDNEY :Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt woke up on Monday morning to reviews of his team's last-gasp win over Fiji that ranged from lukewarm to savage and the knowledge that the first test against the British and Irish Lions was only 12 sleeps away.Despite dominating all but the last minute of the first half, Aus
The Wallabies fell into a Rob Valetini-sized hole in Newcastle
The Wallabies should have had their Test with Fiji squared away at halftime. Instead, they saw Fiji storm back into the contest and, in the process, show just how badly Australia need Rob Valetini against the Lions.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources lean Left
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium