Wales delivered a masterful performance, dismantling Australia 40-6 and becoming the first team to secure a spot in the quarter-finals. In contrast, the Wallabies are now in danger of an early exit from the Pool stage, a situation they have never faced before.
In a high-stakes clash in the fiercely competitive Pool C, it was Wales that started with a bang. A penalty within the first 30 seconds set the tone, followed by an electrifying break by captain Jac Morgan. He swiftly passed to the charging Gareth Davies, who scored a try under the posts.
Australia did manage to respond, with key players like Samu Kerevi and Marika Koroibete leading the charge. When Wales’ linchpin, Dan Biggar, was forced off the field in the 12th minute, and the score stood at a close 7-6 in favor of the Welsh, the Wallabies appeared to be in contention. However, nearly everything went downhill for the two-time World Cup champions from that point on.
A string of penalties allowed Gareth Anscombe, Biggar’s replacement, to extend Wales’ lead to 16-6 by halftime. The second half began with another lightning-fast start, as center Nick Tompkins gathered Anscombe’s clever chip and scored. With Australia struggling for ideas and the penalty count rising, Jac Morgan added to Wales’ tally with a try from a maul. Anscombe further solidified Wales’ dominance with three more penalties and a drop goal, securing their largest-ever victory over Australia.
Gareth Anscombe, named the Mastercard Player of the Match, expressed his relief and joy at securing a spot in the quarter-finals, saying, “I am absolutely delighted and relieved. We knew Australia would come at us with everything they had. This week, we emphasized the importance of family and our loved ones. We talk about the ‘red wall,’ and conceding only six points against Australia is truly remarkable. I’m thrilled for the entire team.”
He also commented on stepping into Dan Biggar’s shoes after his injury, saying, “Dan Biggar means a lot to this team; he’s a true spiritual leader. I knew I had to come on and fulfill my role, and that’s all I focused on.”
Australia’s captain, David Porecki, expressed his disappointment after the loss, stating, “I don’t have much to say; it’s embarrassing for the Australian people. We had hoped to put on a show, but our performance simply wasn’t up to par. We need to regroup and prepare for next week. This defeat stings.”
