Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii reflects on dream Wallabies debut

Sat, Nov 9, 2024, 10:20 PM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
An incredible last minute winner at Twickenham as Ikitau and Jorgensen combine

Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii has been left to soak in what was a memorable debut for the Wallabies after a thrilling 43-37 win over England.

Suaalii looked like a seasoned veteran in his first game back in Rugby Union in several years as he pieced apart the English defence in a player-of-the-match performance.

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The 21-year-old set up the opening try with one of four offloads from his seven carries, putting Tom Wright into space for the five-pointer.

He then showcased his aerial prowess to win back the kick-off, one of three he secured for the Australians.

"Putting on a Wallabies jersey is a very special thing for my family and I," Suaalii said post-game.

"Honestly, I had so much fun out there. It was just great to be a part of it and get the win.

"I just stuck to the process. I've been playing footy since I was four years old...I just wanted to get involved early and the game has come naturally to myself."

There was plenty of scepticism when Suaalii was thrown straight into the starting side, the first to start a Test before playing Super Rugby in the professional era.

However, his combination with Len Ikitau was game-breaking, with the Brumby having his own claims to the best on ground honours.

Suaalii credited Ikitau and his teammates for helping him adjust as they closed out the win after the siren through Max Jorgensen.

"My teammates played their role in helping me fix what I'm missing throughout the game too so a big credit goes to them as well," he noted.

"...I'm just coming in trying to be myself but I'm loving all the energy from the boys."

The Wallabies will turn their focus towards Wales next week, who they defeated twice in July.

They could be left to pick a new captain after Harry Wilson came off second best in a collision whilst Dylan Pietsch looked in some discomfort after leaving the pitch just after the second half.

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