Wallabies' Resilient Comeback Against Lions: A Sign of Growth

Australia coach Joe Schmidt admitted that the British & Irish Lions were the rightful winners of the first test on Saturday, but celebrated the Wallabies' determined resurgence in the final quarter as evidence of their growth.

Despite being dominated by the Lions for the majority of the match, late tries from substitutes Carlo Tizzano and Tate McDermott narrowed the margin. Schmidt maintained optimism, seeing their response as indicative of progress rather than capitulation, a positive sign compared to the team's resilience last year.

Schmidt handed debuts to flyhalf Tom Lynagh and flanker Nick Champion de Crespigny, commending their performances. With Rob Valetini and Will Skelton set to return for the Melbourne test, Schmidt remains hopeful, aiming for strategic improvements, particularly in collision and lineout work, to bolster competitiveness.

(With inputs from agencies.)