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The Wallabies have got their 2017 season off to a winning start, too strong for Fiji this afternoon in Melbourne, winning by 37-14.
The Wallabies shot out of the blocks early, a pinpoint cross-kick by Bernard Foley setting up Israel Folau to challenge for the catch then fall on the ball for the opening try, after only 3 minutes.
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The Wallabies line speed in defence proved too much for the Fijians to handle early, and coupled with some poor Fijian discipline in the tackle area, it was no surprise when they added a second try, also in the right corner to Henry Speight.
Fiji gradually worked themselves back into the game, coming close to scoring on two occasions, but they lacked a little of the composure needed at this level. Also, the Wallabies defence was sound, Bernard Foley, twice knocking down rampaging forwards.
The second half followed a similar pattern, both defences cancelling each other out until a superb backline move saw Foley set Folau through a huge hole in the 54th minute; his angled run and goose-step taking him all the way to the corner for a thrilling try.
(AAP Image/Joe Castro)
Fiji stayed in the fight however, and after some loose play, big winger Vereniki Goneva found space and ran away from Dane Haylett-Petty and Speight for Fiji’s opening try.
It wouldn’t be a game of rugby without Stephen Moore scoring a maul try from a lineout, and he duly obliged in the 67th minute, putting the home side out to 32-7.
Fiji fought back again however, this time the other winger, Timoci Nagusa burrowing over from close range, to make the score 32-14, which is where it looked like it would stay.
However the Wallabies backline had the last say, after the siren, putting the ball through the hands nicely to construct an overlap try for Henry Speight.
This was a typical ‘first-up’ test match for both sides, with plenty of errors and a lack of cohesion obvious. As a spectacle the game certainly didn’t match the beautiful overhead and pitch conditions, although there were some well-taken tries to keep the crowd – Australian and Fijian – entertained.
Interestingly, the Wallabies individual missed tackle tally was high, but overall, considering the amount of possession conceded, the Wallabies defence applied plenty of pressure on the Fijian runners, making it difficult for them to get their ensemble game rolling.
Foley in particular, stood out for two great one on one tackles against big units who were charging at him.
Halfback Will Genia, on his return, looked sharp and efficient, and was deservedly named man of the match. Wallabies fans will also be delighted to see Israel Folau running with flair and confidence from the back.
(AAP Image/Richard Wainwright)
Up front, the scrum battle was fairly even, although Adam Coleman will be pleased with his efforts against the big Fijian pack.
His opposite, Leone Nakarawa was a standout for the visitors, running and chip kick like a back, seemingly forgetting his huge frame. Both wingers too had their moments, and there is plenty for coach John McKee to feel confident about, moving forward.
All in all, not one of the memorable Test matches, but an entertaining afternoon in Melbourne, finished off with a great touch, hundreds of fans, young and old, allowed on to the pitch to mingle closely with their Wallabies heroes.
Australia 37
Fiji 14