Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt has emphasised the critical need for his team to make an immediate impact in the second Test against the British and Irish Lions next weekend in Melbourne.
Following a disappointing 27-19 opening loss in Brisbane, Schmidt warned that a slow start could effectively end their hopes of winning the series before the final Test in Sydney.
“We’ve got to keep learning fast and hit the ground running next week. Otherwise, it becomes a dead rubber in Sydney,” Schmidt stated.
He acknowledged the immense pressure on both sides, adding, “Inevitably, you’re desperate to keep the series alive, and I know that the Lions will want to close it out in Melbourne. So Melbourne is going to be massive for both teams.”
Potential Team Changes and Areas for Improvement
Australia was notably sluggish in their first match, conceding an early try in the eighth minute and spending much of the first half playing catch-up.
Another lapse early in the second half saw them fall 24-5 behind before a determined fightback salvaged some confidence for the upcoming clash.
Schmidt is highly likely to make changes to his starting XV. Experienced forwards Rob Valetini and Will Skelton, now fit, are strong contenders to replace Nick Champion de Crespigny and either Jeremy Williams or Nick Frost.
The coach also noted the positive impact of his bench in the first Test, particularly scrum-half Tate McDermott and loosehead prop Angus Bell, both of whom could earn starting roles.
“I felt the bench added value when they came on. In those last 20 to 25 minutes, we did get a bit of momentum, and we weren’t far away,” Schmidt commented.
With the Lions battle-hardened and having won all six of their tour games so far, the Wallabies recognise they must significantly elevate their performance at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Schmidt highlighted areas for improvement, including accuracy, collision area work, and lineout tidiness. He did, however, commend the team’s “very strong” scrum performance.
