Great Wallaby Tries: 1984 Grand Slam v Wales

Nov 26

Posted by Noddy
11 Comments

And so we reach the final test of the tour, which was actually the penultimate test 25 years ago. This time, however, we won’t win the Grand Slam. Hell, its more than likelywe won’t win this test.

Our backs are looking ponderous and directionless. The odd break is being made, but it inevitably dies out. The skills just look lacking as players try to overplay their hand or just plain don’t know what to do. So let’s pause for a momnet and review highlights of the famous Welsh test way back in 1984:

Nov 12

Great Wallaby Tries: 84 Grand Slam v Ireland

Posted by Noddy
13 Comments

As with this tour, the second test on the 1984 Grand Slam tour was against Ireland, in Dublin. The Irish would be different opponents from the Poms with a greater battle at the breakdown expected. Accordingly Alan Jones opted to play Chris Roche along side Simon Poidevin in the backrow, to have dual open-sides. It was another try-less first half as Australia went to the break 3-0 up thanks to a Michael Lynagh drop goal.

In the second half Mark Ella also dropped a goal to give the Wallabies a six point lead. Three quick penalties to Ireland soon had them ahead 9-6 and the Wallabies looking shakey. Another Ella droppy (for someone reknowned for his running game, he kicked a few) tied the score up. And it is here that we pick up play with about five minutes left on the match clock and at 5:54 on the youtube video.