On July 25, 2025, Wales achieved a significant milestone by defeating Australia 21-12 in Brisbane, marking their first victory under the leadership of head coach Sean Lynn. This triumph came at a crucial time, just four weeks before the start of the Rugby World Cup, following a disappointing campaign where Wales lost all five matches in the Six Nations earlier this year. The match showcased a revitalized Welsh team, delivering a performance that ignited hope for the future.
Australia began the contest strongly, with Annabelle Codey breaking through for an early score. However, the game was halted temporarily due to inclement weather, which presented a unique challenge amidst striking thunder and lightning. After the 30-minute break, Wales used the time to regroup and returned with renewed vigor. Nel Metcalfe, playing a pivotal role for the Welsh side, crossed the try line twice during the match, despite a brief lapse in concentration that allowed Tabua Tuinakauvadra to score for Australia just before half-time, narrowing Wales’ lead to 14-12.
Wales’ defense was put to the test in the second half as the Wallaroos sought to regain territory and dominance. However, it was Wales who extended their lead through an opportunistic try from Hannah Dallavalle, further solidifying their advantage in a match that was characterized by resilience and strategic execution. While Australia dominated possession during this period, the Welsh defense remained steadfast, managing to thwart a number of attacking endeavors from their opponents.
As the game progressed, Wales found themselves in a commanding position, showcasing a blend of dynamic attack and solid defense. The players demonstrated significant improvement compared to previous outings, giving their supporters a taste of what could be possible in the World Cup. The triumph was not just a win on the scoreboard but also a testament to the hard work and dedication the team had invested over the preceding weeks under the guidance of Lynn.
In the aftermath, emotions ran high, with head coach Sean Lynn expressing immense pride in the girls and staff. He remarked on the importance of the victory, stating, “We had a point to prove and the girls have done us all proud.” The sentiments of accomplishment were mirrored by the players, particularly captain Alex Callender, who led the team for the first time and contributed significantly to the victory.
On the other hand, Australia’s head coach, Jo Yapp, voiced disappointment in the outcome, emphasizing that the result did not reflect the quality of training and preparation the team had undergone. She acknowledged that her side struggled to manage the ball effectively and couldn’t capitalize on their territorial advantage.
Both teams now look forward to their next encounter in Sydney, set for Friday, where they will face off again in another warm-up match before their Rugby World Cup campaigns begin. For Wales, this victory serves as an encouraging platform to build upon, with fans hopeful that they will carry this momentum into the World Cup and beyond. Meanwhile, Australia will need to regroup and refine their strategies to ensure they are competitive in the upcoming tournament.
As the matches unfold, both teams are set to embrace the challenges ahead, with Welsh and Australian players ready to give their all in pursuit of glory on the international stage. The experience gained from this match will undoubtedly contribute to their growth and performance in future competitions, solidifying their places in the evolving landscape of women’s rugby.
