The British and Irish Lions kicked off their Test series in style, dominating for much of the game before easing off late to secure a 27-19 victory in front of 52,229 fans at Brisbane’s Lang Park.
While the Lions were the superior side for most of the contest, the Wallabies might feel aggrieved after a few contentious officiating decisions.
Here are five key takeaways from the first Test in Brisbane:
1. Russell’s Midfield Brilliance
Finn Russell, well known for steering Scotland’s potent backline, demonstrated his class behind a commanding forward pack.
With a penalty advantage in hand, the Lions shifted the ball wide to Dan Sheehan. Russell, under pressure, pulled off a slick offload to the Irish hooker, who linked with James Lowe.
The Wallabies’ defense regrouped but bunched up, leaving Sione Tuipulotu completely unmarked. Russell’s pinpoint floating pass found him in open space, leading to the game’s first try.
2. Jorgensen Soars Over Keenan
Max Jorgensen produced a stunning individual moment to drag the Wallabies back into the match.
With injuries forcing changes in the Lions’ backfield—Elliot Daly out with a broken arm and Blair Kinghorn sidelined with a knee issue—Hugo Keenan was selected at fullback.
While solid early, Keenan was beaten in an aerial contest by Jorgensen, who surged away to score a much-needed try for Australia. The moment also exposed a potential vulnerability the Wallabies might target in future matches.
3. Wallabies Outraged by Curry’s Aerial Collision
Tom Curry escaped with just a penalty after a high-contact incident with Tom Lynagh.
Arriving milliseconds too early, Curry collided with Lynagh as he leapt for a high ball—triggering loud protests from the home crowd and players. Referee Ben O’Keeffe deemed it penalty-worthy but not cardable, prompting animated discussions as the Wallabies left the field at halftime.
Curry’s physical presence was crucial, with big tackles and a key offload to Russell that sparked a Lions try early in the second half.
4. Furlong Avoids Yellow Amid Head Contact
Tadhg Furlong also dodged a yellow card despite making shoulder-to-head contact with Len Ikitau in a cleanout.
Referee O’Keeffe acknowledged foul play and initially classified the contact as a yellow-card offense. However, he cited mitigating factors—namely Ikitau rising into the hit—and downgraded it to just a penalty. The decision added to the Wallabies’ mounting frustration.
5. Suaalii’s Try Overturned After Review
Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, quiet for most of the match, nearly reignited the Wallabies’ hopes in the second half.
After a bruising carry got Australia over the gain line, he powered toward the try line and was dragged across by teammates. Initially awarded a try, the decision was reversed after Lions lock Maro Itoje urged the referee to check the replay.
Replays showed Ben Earl had just enough wrap in the tackle, and with the Lions contesting the ball on the ground, Suaalii’s failure to release led to a penalty instead.
