Lions Secure First Test Victory Over Wallabies in Brisbane

The Lions secured their first Test victory over the Wallabies with a 27-19 win in Brisbane. The Lions dominated the first half, with the Wallabies mounting a strong comeback in the last half-hour of the game. The Lions' pack, led by Ellis Genge and Tadhg Furlong, and the back row of Tom Curry and Jack Conan, were instrumental in the win. The Wallabies will look to turn the series around in Melbourne next week.

The British and Irish Lions have kicked off their tour of Australia with a commanding 27-19 win over the Wallabies in the first Test match at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. The Lions dominated the contest from the outset, showcasing their superior game plan and execution in the first half. Despite a late comeback by the Wallabies, the Lions held on to secure a crucial series lead.

The Lions, led by captain Maro Itoje, demonstrated exceptional control in the opening 50 minutes. Finn Russell's early penalty and tries from Sione Tuipulotu and Tom Curry put the Lions 17-5 ahead at halftime [1]. The Wallabies' Max Jorgensen scored a crucial try before the break to narrow the gap to 17-10. However, the Lions' dominance continued into the second half, with Dan Sheehan scoring a try and Finn Russell converting it to extend the lead to 24-5.

The Wallabies mounted a strong comeback, with Carlo Tizzano and Tate McDermott crossing the line to reduce the deficit to 24-19. The Lions' defense held firm, and Marcus Smith's penalty sealed the victory with just over a minute remaining [2]. The Lions' pack, led by Ellis Genge and Tadhg Furlong, and the back row of Tom Curry and Jack Conan, were instrumental in the win. The Wallabies will look to turn the series around in Melbourne next week.

The Lions' victory was not without its challenges. The Wallabies showed resilience and improved in the second half, winning a significant amount of possession and territory. However, the Lions' discipline and accuracy at the breakdown proved to be the decisive factor [3]. The breakdown battle has been a key focus for both teams, with the Wallabies relying on their familiarity with the referee, Ben O'Keeffe, who has previously officiated in the Super Rugby Pacific competition [3].

The Lions' victory marks the start of a significant series for both teams. The Wallabies are desperate to upset the odds and turn the series around, while the Lions aim to secure a whitewash. The next Test will take place in Melbourne on July 9, 2025 [4].

References:
[1] https://www.espn.com/rugby/story/_/id/45763266/british-irish-lions-vs-australia-first-test-live-score-updates
[2] https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/articles/cq53xlj0py9o
[3] https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-07-19/live-updates-wallabies-vs-british-and-irish-lions-first-test/105550662
[4] https://www.espn.com/rugby/story/_/id/45763266/british-irish-lions-vs-australia-first-test-live-score-updates