In an unexpected twist in rugby allegiance, former Ireland flanker Alan Quinlan has openly declared his support for the Wallabies in the upcoming British and Irish Lions Test in Melbourne. With the Lions leading the series after a 27-19 victory in Brisbane, the tension is mounting for a pivotal second match.
The Lions, despite their first match win, didn't deliver a knockout blow, allowing Australia to stay in the hunt. The game was described by many as lacking intensity, with the Wallabies criticized for not bringing enough physicality to trouble the touring team. Quinlan, speaking on Off The Ball, made it clear he's rooting for a Wallabies comeback to spice up the series.
"Yes, I do want them to win. It would make for a great week and keep the series alive and kicking,"
Quinlan expressed, hinting at the broader implications of a Wallabies victory for the sport and its fans.Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt has received a boost with Rob Valetini and Will Skelton returning to the lineup, enhancing the team's ball-carrying capabilities. Despite these additions, the Lions are still seen as the favorites, carrying not just a game lead but also an array of improvements they can still tap into.
Quinlan emphasized the necessity for Australia to step up their game, especially in terms of physicality.
"They've got to find something crazy because the form would suggest that they're not going to be good enough to do it,"
he remarked, underscoring the uphill battle the Wallabies face.The former Ireland star also noted the potential for the Lions to enhance their performance, especially in the latter stages of the game. The hope is for a tightly contested match that keeps fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle, contrasting sharply with the first Test where the game seemed decided well before the end. With stakes high and expectations mounting, the Melbourne showdown promises to be a thrilling chapter in the storied Lions tour narrative.