Wallabies and Italy Battle in a Tight Test as Carter Gordon Marks His Return
The rugby world turned its eyes to Udine this weekend as the Wallabies faced Italy in a tense and evenly matched Test encounter. It wasn’t just another stop on Australia’s European tour — it was a test of resilience, patience, and perhaps most importantly, redemption. For the Wallabies, still recovering from a rough run of form and a painful loss at Twickenham, this match offered a chance to reset. And at the heart of it all stood Carter Gordon, making his first Test appearance since the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
From the opening whistle, both sides made their intent clear. Italy struck first through Paolo Garbisi, whose reliable boot gave the hosts an early edge. The Wallabies appeared a little sluggish at the start, conceding penalties and struggling to find their rhythm. But soon enough, they began to settle, finding their shape through phases and testing the Italian defence. Hooker Matt Faessler powered over for Australia’s opening try from a well-constructed maul, reminding everyone that the Wallabies still knew how to turn pressure into points.
Not long after, prop Angus Bell added another, diving over after a patient buildup near the Italian line. By halftime, Australia led 12–9 — not by much, but enough to show signs of progress. Italy, though, was far from done. Garbisi kept them in touch with his precise penalty kicking, capitalizing on every Wallabies infringement. Early in the second half, he levelled the score at 12–12, sparking fresh energy among the home fans in Udine.
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What made this clash fascinating was how evenly poised it remained throughout. The Wallabies controlled most of the possession — around 63 percent — yet couldn’t quite convert dominance into distance on the scoreboard. Their discipline wavered at times, allowing Italy to stay in the contest. But defensively, Australia showed grit, holding off a few dangerous attacking surges from Gli Azzurri.
All eyes were also on Carter Gordon, back in the gold jersey after a 518-day absence from rugby union. Despite a long layoff, he looked composed and creative, orchestrating attacks with confidence and linking well with the backline. Wallabies captain Harry Wilson had called him a “natural footballer” ahead of the match, and it showed. His awareness, physicality, and game sense gave Australia some much-needed direction at fly-half — a position that’s seen too many changes lately.
Italy, missing their captain Michele Lamaro, still played with passion and precision. Their energy in the breakdowns and commitment in defence proved they’ve come a long way from being easy opponents.
By full time, the scoreboard reflected the closeness of the contest — a fitting result for a night where both teams fought for pride and progress. For the Wallabies, it wasn’t perfect, but it was another step in rebuilding their identity ahead of tougher challenges against Ireland and France. For Italy, it was further proof that they belong among rugby’s rising nations, capable of going toe-to-toe with the best.
In Udine, the lights may have dimmed, but one thing was clear — this wasn’t just a Test match; it was a statement of intent from both sides.
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