Wallabies legend George Gregan is rallying behind Joe Schmidt’s squad to keep the British and Irish Lions series alive with a historic performance in Melbourne on Saturday. A defeat at the Melbourne Cricket Ground would hand the Lions an unassailable 2-0 lead following their victory in Brisbane, where the Wallabies’ vulnerabilities were laid bare until a late resurgence saw them narrow the gap to a 27-19 loss.
The return of No.8 Rob Valetini is a key factor in Gregan’s optimism. The former Wallabies captain believes Valetini can deliver a game-changing performance akin to Ardie Savea’s for the All Blacks, crucial for winning the breakdown and gainline battles. Gregan stated, “It’s probably the biggest game in this country for the Wallabies for a very long time. Rob fights for metres after contact, and like Ardie Savea, you don’t tackle him and he drops; he keeps going. Rob will have a big impact in the contact area.”
Historical Context and Gregan’s Insights
Gregan, who played a pivotal role in the Wallabies’ 2-1 series win over the Lions in 2001, understands the challenge of rebounding from a first Test defeat. That year, the Wallabies overcame a 29-13 loss in Brisbane with a 35-14 victory in Melbourne, eventually clinching the series with a 29-23 win in Sydney. “You know heading into the second Test that you have to front up or the series is done,” Gregan recalled. “As a player, these are the moments and games you want to be part of, showing some grit and character and turning things around.”
For Australian rugby, the stakes could not be higher. With rugby league’s State of Origin recently concluded, the spotlight is firmly on the Wallabies to deliver a performance that could set up a series decider. Gregan emphasized, “For Australian rugby union, it doesn’t get any bigger than this, and it’s a chance to put everything on the line.”
Key Tactical Battles and Player Dynamics
The breakdown is identified as the most critical battle in the series. Gregan noted, “There is never any magic science or magic sword, and if you lose the gainline battle, the game becomes more difficult. It’s hard to attack; your playmakers have less time on the ball, and you are really under pressure.”
“The breakdown is huge and this was always going to be the most important battle in this series. When the Lions get that quick ball, you can see what they can do. They get numbers, play with width, and score points quickly.” – George Gregan
The Wallabies’ strategy in the first Test, which included starting rookie Tom Lynagh and Jake Gordon at half-back, saw mixed results. Their best moments came with try-scorer Tate McDermott and Ben Donaldson in those roles. Gregan commented, “Tate always lifts things, playing with a lot of energy and is dangerous around the ruck and provides a different picture to what Jake does.”
Lessons from the Past and Future Prospects
Reflecting on the 2001 series, Gregan highlighted the importance of experience and consistency. “We had an experienced squad and were very consistent in how we approached and reviewed every match,” he said. The current Wallabies team, led by head coach Joe Schmidt, faces the challenge of dismantling the Lions’ formidable setup. The return of key forwards Valetini and Will Skelton could be pivotal.
“My heart says the Wallabies for this second Test,” Gregan expressed, drawing confidence from the Wallabies’ promising final quarter in Brisbane. “What I saw in that final quarter was promising because that is the way to make the Lions feel a bit uncomfortable and not find their rhythm.”
“Then it comes down to who executes in the big moments, and I hope that is the Wallabies. I will be there in my gold Wallaby jersey.” – George Gregan
The Wallabies have a chance to rewrite history and extend the series to a decider in Sydney. With the pressure mounting, all eyes will be on Melbourne this Saturday to see if Gregan’s faith in the Wallabies’ resilience and tactical acumen will be rewarded.
