Poidevin’s take: Donaldson bet pays off, England tactical masterclass
Former Wallaby captain and Rugby World Cup winner Simon Poidevin on what has been revealed in the opening matches of this edition of the tournament.
Australia’s Ben Donaldson crosses for one of the two tries and six goals he scored in a man-on-the-match performance at fullback. AP
Australia did the job against a tenacious Georgia to win with a bonus point at a sweltering Stade de France where the temperature was still 35 when the match kicked off at 6pm.
The final score of 35 to 15 could have been more convincing, but the Wallabies weren’t able to maintain the high standards they set in the first 30 minutes.
The most talked about selection before the match was Ben Donaldson starting at fullback after Carter Gordon missed numerous kicks against France. He repaid the faith of Eddie Jones in multiples, scoring 25 points – including two tries – in a man-of-the-match performance that gives Jones a welcome selection dilemma for the matches ahead.
Will Skelton was colossal, making a big statement that he is the man to lead Australia. Skelton was everywhere, making multiple damaging carries, four crucial turnovers and a vital lineout defensive play that saved a try.
Taniela Tupou was magnificent, dominating the scrum, running like a gazelle in attack and throwing a wonderful pass that would make Mark Ella proud. Jones kept Tupou, who hasn’t played much due to injury, on for most of the match, getting some good time into his giant legs.
Taniela Tupou pops a pass that would do Mark Ella proud as he set up Ben Donaldson for a try. AP
Mark Nawaqanitawase and Marika Koroibete were outstanding out wide for Australia and Jordan Petaia had his best game in gold.
The Wallaby scrum was impressive across the night against a Georgian pack
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