Wallabies deny Lions clean sweep with 22-12 Sydney win
Australia ran out 22-12 winners in Sydney, preventing the British and Irish Lions from achieving a 3-0 series whitewash, inspired by Will Skelton’s dominant display.
Before the Sydney finale, one startling fact defined the series: Australia’s lock Will Skelton was absent for the Lions’ 39-22 victory but central to the Wallabies’ 38-24 win when he played.
The British and Irish Lions had chased history but fell short, unable to secure a 3-0 series sweep. In front of a raucous home crowd and under relentless rain, the Wallabies harnessed Skelton’s power alongside late additions Taniela Tupou and Dylan Pietsch to secure a 22-12 victory.
Over a 36-day tour, the Lions recorded eight wins from nine matches, traversing more than 25,000 miles across Australia. Yet the dream of a whitewash evaporated in shaping Sydney conditions.
Sydney finale delivers unforgettable drama
The Lions were beaten from the first whistle, outplayed in all facets and summarily denied their best performance when it mattered most. The match recalled the electrifying atmosphere at the MCG in Melbourne, where 90,000 fans witnessed a miraculous near-comeback that kept the series alive.
On a night of biblical rain and dramatic weather delays, the Wallabies seized the momentum and left no doubt, spoiling the Lions’ party lap with cheers of gold.
Triumph tinged with frustration
Despite lifting the series 2-1, the Lions admitted they never played to their true potential. Captains Maro Itoje and Dan Sheehan insisted more was left in the tank, underscoring the bittersweet taste of a tour that promised more.
Australia, meanwhile, revitalised after a heavy opening loss in Brisbane, restored their cohesion under coach Andy Farrell’s guidance. A single contentious ruck decision involving Jac Morgan remains a talking point for future tours.
Brilliant individuals in a flawed squad
Tadhg Furlong rebuilt his form after injury, while Maro Itoje led with clinical precision. Tom Curry and Tadhg Beirne set the tone with early hits, and Finn Russell’s late-game management nearly rescued the second Test, showcasing the quality within the squad.
Ultimately, the 2025 Lions leave Australia with pride in their achievements but frustration at unfulfilled expectations.
Despite inspired performances and thrilling moments, the Lions were denied a perfect series sweep by a dominant Wallabies display in Sydney, making the 2025 tour a bittersweet success.
This topic was reported by BBC Sport.
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