Wallaroos blow 19-point lead in loss to France
Australia led 19-0 against France but conceded 17 unanswered points in the final 25 minutes to lose 29-26.
Australia's Wallaroos surrendered a dominant position to lose 29-26 to France in an extraordinary Test on Saturday. The Wallaroos powered into a 19-0 lead after France was reduced to just 11 players in the first half following four cards in 20 minutes.
Tries from Britanny Merlo, Tania Naden and Caitlyn Halse put Australia in control. France fought back with three second-half tries despite further cards being issued.
Piper Duck scored early in the resumed second half, delayed by a bus fire adjacent to the stadium, but France reeled off 17 unanswered points to overtake Australia and claim an unlikely win. The loss follows last week's heavy defeat to England.
- France 29, Australia 26
- Final score
- 19-0
- Australian lead at peak
- 17
- Unanswered points in final 25 minutes
- 11 players
- France's minimum players
Why it mattersThe collapse against a depleted French side represents a missed chance to rebuild momentum after heavy losses.
AustraliaThe Wallaroos' struggles in this Test window affect Australia's rugby standing and World Cup preparation.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 5 d ago
