Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 - 1995), Monday 14 August 1972, page 16


Wallabies beat Taranaki

NEW PLYMOUTH, NZ, Sunday (AAP). — Determination and a much improved performance gave the Wallabies their first tour win when they beat Taranaki by 20 points to 15 at Rugby Park, New Plymouth, yesterday.

The weather was kind to the Australians, and it began to rain only when the

final whistle blew, but the Wallabies fully deserved their victory.

But for dropped passes, the Australians would have won by more.

The Wallabies, who had earlier lost to Otago and Buller West Coast, showed glimpses of their best form over a side that went down the weekend before to the Ranfurly Shield holder North Auckland by only 15-27.

It was the Wallabies' first match in New Zea

land cn a firm ground and the conditions suited the speedy guests. The victory is the more meritorious because of the withdrawal on the morning of the match of Russel Fairfax with a groin injury.

Scores: Australia (G. O. Grey, R. D. L'Estrange, J. W. Cole tries; A. N. McGill one conversion and two penalties) defeated Taranaki (W. D. Currey and B. Grant tries; P. Martin two conversions and a penalty).