Australia ran in four tries as they comprehensively defeated Wales 33-12 at the Millennium Stadium.

The Wallabies were seething after their shock loss to Scotland last week and got off to the best possible start to try and erase that memory. David Pocock, who was rested last week, was phenomenal in the opening half, claiming numerous turnovers and strong in defence as they raced to a 13-3 lead.

Pocock led the Aussie forwards’ assault on the Welsh and was deservedly rewarded with their third try after just 24 minutes. Matt Giteau, the villain at Murrayfield, enjoyed a much better performance with his forwards bullying the Welsh and was also heavily involved in all of their tries.

All the hosts could offer was four penalties, but at half-time they were still in the contest at 23-12.

Wales could have narrowed the gap further in the opening 10 minutes of the half, but two penalties were missed. Australia’s attack had been superb, but they favoured the use of the boot in the second.

Wales also had their chances, on one occasion they had 18 phases of attack in the 22, but George Smith forced the turnover. Smith came on for the injured Pocock at half-time, and Smith’s influence continued their dominance at ruck-time.

The visitors defended brilliantly, and their first meaningful attack of the half yielded three points as Giteau slotted another penalty. The Wallabies reserve opensider, Smith, then won another turnover, Giteau broke and fed to Tatafu Polota-Nau, who sealed the result with his side’s fourth try.

This Test was a clear indication of Australia’s ability and was by far their best performance of the European tour. For Warren Gatland’s charges, this was evidence they are still some way from competing with the big boys.

This entry was posted on Saturday, November 28th, 2009 at 6:28 pm and is filed under Europe, Live Reports, Year End Tour. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.