Australia coach Joe Schmidt has confirmed that second row Will Skelton and back row Rob Valetini could be back for the second Test in Melbourne.
The Wallabies were beaten 27–19 by the British & Irish Lions in Brisbane and, while admitting disappointment, Schmidt said there were reasons for optimism following a strong finish to the second half.
Tries from Carlo Tizzano and Tate McDermott brought the hosts to within eight points.
“I just think that this time last year we probably would have folded, but I love the way this team is developing and we’ve got a very tough start to the season,” he said.
“I’m not saying the Lions didn’t deserve to win it because I feel they did, based on what they produced in the first half.
“They didn’t give us much breathing space, and that made it tough to find access points into the game.
“I’m not sure what the predictions were before the match, but to finish within eight points is a testament to the character of the players and the way they fought back.
“We’ve got to keep learning quickly and hit the ground running next week. Otherwise, it becomes a dead rubber in Sydney. We are desperate to keep the series alive, but I know the Lions will want to close it out in Melbourne too.”
Lions coach Andy Farrell had spoken about the importance of fast starts, and the tourists flew out of the blocks - something Schmidt knows his side must counter.
A record six-figure crowd is expected at the MCG on Saturday, and Schmidt believes home advantage could make a big difference, despite the huge numbers of travelling fans in the Lions’ red wall.
“I think Melbourne is going to be massive for both teams. I do feel we earned some support with how we played, and we got some fantastic backing,” he added.
“I think people who came to support the Wallabies can go away feeling that, while we may not quite have been good enough, we certainly didn’t lack effort and showed real character to claw our way back into the game.”
The return of Skelton and Valetini - with nearly 100 caps between them - will be welcomed, but Schmidt also praised the contributions of Tom Lynagh, son of Wallaby legend Michael, and Nick Champion de Crespigny on their debuts in green and gold.
“There’s no way Tom lacks courage. He carried the ball when needed, kicked to the line well, and found some space from behind,” he said.
“Nick’s a workaholic and a tough character. He loved it. The tougher it got, the more he relished it. I was really proud of the way he acquitted himself.”
