5 Classic Encounters Between Wales and Australia at Principality Stadium

November 08, 2018
1313
Ultimate Rugby

Wales will be looking to break their longstanding drought against Australia on Saturday, as this year marks 10 years since they beat the Southern hemisphere side in a Test Match.

Since Warren Gatland took over as head coach of Wales in 2008 they played 38 games against Australia, New Zealand and South Africa and have won only four.

Here are five memorable games between the two nations since the 2000’s at the Principality Stadium.

Wales 24-22 Australia – Principality Stadium, 26 November 2005

Wales claimed their first win over Australia since 1987 in a pulsating encounter at the Principality Stadium.

The Welsh were behind 6-7 at half-time, but it was Stephen Jones’ boot that kicked them to a historic victory.

This was also the first win over any of the three southern hemisphere superpowers since the 29-19 triumph over South Africa in 1999.

Wales 29-29 Australia – Principality Stadium, 4 November 2006

In 2006, the two sides were involved in a six-try thriller which ended up being their first draw in history. The Aussies, who lead at half-time 17-16, saw Cameron Shepherd cross the line twice, while Chris Latham and Matt Giteau also dotted down.

Wales 21-18 Australia – Principality Stadium, 29 November 2008

This victory was the last time Wales managed to beat Australia in the last decade and it is remembered for Shane Williams incredible pickup to score in the corner in the opening minutes of the game.

Wales 28-33 Australia – Principality Stadium, 29 November 2014

Australia beat Wales for the 10th successive time in a thrilling game, which saw them seal victory late on. Bernard Foley kicked 18 points in the game, the most crucial coming in the final minutes as he sent over a drop-goal, then a penalty to win the game.

Wales 21-29 Australia – Principality Stadium, 11 November 2017

Last year’s loss marked Wales 13th consecutive loss to Australia although it was quite a tight game. The Southern Hemisphere outfit outscored the Welsh four tries to two and on the day it was Will Genia who got named man of the match.