Rugby: Wallabies' defence earns respect

Wallabies Wycliff Palu bolts through the tackle from Andrew Bishop of Wales. Photo / Getty Images

CARDIFF - Australia laid claim to having the best defence in world rugby with a rare shutout of Wales at Millennium Stadium yesterday.

Desperate not to have their line breached, the Wallabies made twice as many tackles as the home side in the comprehensive 33-12 victory, Australia's biggest win in Cardiff since the triumphant 1991 World Cup campaign.

"Their defence was magnificent," said Wales' defence coach Shaun Edwards.

England and Scotland also failed to score a try against Australia, who conceded just three tries in the six-game tour of the British Isles.

New Zealand have conceded none on their four-match end-of-season tour against Wales, Italy, England and France.

Incredibly, the Wallabies missed just four tackles in 80 minutes against Scotland, yet still suffered their only tour defeat.

"All tour I've been happy with the defence. It's given us an enormous lift in almost every game we've had," Wallabies captain Rocky Elsom said.

"The reason for that is the guys are just keen to work. Particularly at the end there it was getting very difficult, but we managed to get everyone on their feet and kept going at them."

The Wallabies defended desperately as Wales attacked their line relentlessly in the final 10 minutes.

"The defence was great and that's been coming on for some time and it's a reflection of the physical work they're doing," coach Robbie Deans said.

"[Wallabies conditioner] Pete Harding can take a lot of credit for their ability to go 80 minutes. Good things take time but they're starting to build a base now."

Prop Benn Robinson, who had been in doubt for the test all week with a shoulder injury, said the Wallabies' pride in defence typified the growing resolve in the team.

"When we were under the pump, five or 10 metres out, we ended up getting a turnover," he said.

The Australian scrum, with loosehead Robinson providing the foundation, is also receiving international accolades, with Wales coach Warren Gatland rating it superior to New Zealand's scrum.

"It's getting the respect that it deserves," Deans said. "I'll look forward to that in the Tri-Nations next year. I can't spell it out any more than that."

- AAP