Australia score late try to snatch win over Fiji

Australia 21 (14)

Tries: Porecki, McReight, Wilson Cons: Lolesio 2, Donaldson

Fiji 18 (5)

Tries: Rayasi, Tagitagivalu Cons: Muntz Pens: Muntz 2

Captain Harry Wilson's try one minute from full-time denied Fiji a famous win in Australia.

The Wallabies laboured in their only warm-up fixture before their first Test against the British and Irish Lions on 19 July in Brisbane.

Joe Schmidt's side did little to worry Lions head coach Andy Farrell as Fiji - seeking their first win in Australia in more than 70 years - fought back from 14-5 down to lead 18-15 heading into the closing stages.

Tries by hooker Dave Porecki and flanker Fraser McReight put the hosts in control as half-time approached.

However, debutant Salesi Rayasi, who is a former New Zealand sevens player, produced a wonderful finish to close the gap in the final play of the half.

A forward pass from Ben Donaldson ruled out a third score for Australia early in the second half as Schmidt's side failed to master spirited Fiji.

A stunning break by Jiuta Wainiqolo from deep inside his own half set up Lekima Tagitagivalu for a try to put Mick Byrne's side back within striking distance.

Fly-half Caleb Muntz kicked two penalties to put the Pacific Island side on the brink of another win over Australia, following their 22-15 victory at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

But Wilson showed great strength to ground the ball under enormous pressure to deny the visitors when they were in sight of victory.

A further area of concern for Australia was the sight of Noah Lolesio, the likely starting fly-half against the Lions, being carried off on a stretcher after a nasty head injury.

Australia: Wright; Potter, Suaalii, Ikitau, Jorgensen; Lolesio, McDermott; Slipper, Porecki, Alaalatoa, Frost, Williams, Gleeson, McReight, Wilson (capt).

Replacements: Pollard, Bell, Nonggorr, Hooper, Tizzano, White, Donaldson, Daugunu.

Fiji: Rayasi; Ravouvou, Masi, Tuisova, Wainiqolo; Muntz, Kuruvoli; Mawi, Ikanivere (capt), Ravai, Nasilasila, Mayanavanua, Tagitagivalu, Canakaivata, Mata.

Replacements: Matavesi, Hetet, Doge, Vocevoce, Tuisue, Baselala, Ravula, Maqala.