Reece Walsh delivered a stunning performance in his international debut, leading Australia to a commanding 26-6 victory over England at Wembley Stadium on March 15, 2024. With two tries and an exceptional all-around display, Walsh not only justified coach Kevin Walters’ decision to start him but also put the Kangaroos ahead 1-0 in the Ashes series.
The match, attended by 60,812 fans, saw Walsh electrify the crowd with his agility and skill, making a strong case for his position as the starting fullback, especially with veteran Dylan Edwards sidelined for this opening Test. Alongside him, Angus Crichton, who also scored two tries, emerged as a key player, helping to secure Australia’s early lead.
Dominant Debut Performance
Walsh’s impact was immediate. He initiated the Kangaroos’ first try in the 18th minute, demonstrating his playmaking ability by supplying a cut-out pass to Mark Nawaqanitawase. This set up Walsh’s first try, where he executed a graceful swan dive into the end zone. His defensive skills were equally impressive, as he thwarted a potential breakaway by English centre Jake Wardle, showcasing his commitment on both ends of the field.
The opening half concluded with Australia leading 8-0, thanks to a penalty goal after a professional foul by England’s defense. Walsh continued to shine in the second half, igniting the Australian offense by slicing through the English defensive line on a kick return. This momentum allowed Crichton to extend the lead to 14-0 with a straightforward try, capitalizing on England’s defensive lapses.
With just over 30 minutes remaining, Crichton added another try, connecting with Cameron Munster to push Australia’s advantage to an insurmountable 20-0. As English fans began to exit early, Walsh capped off his debut with a second try, further solidifying his status as the standout player of the match.
Ashes Series Outlook
Despite the errors that characterized the game, the Kangaroos demonstrated resilience and tactical execution, a promising sign as they head to Liverpool for the second Test. This victory positions Australia favorably to secure its 14th consecutive Ashes series title, aiming to continue its dominance since the last series in 2003.
England managed to score a late try through hooker Daryl Clark, but it came too late to change the outcome. As the match concluded, Walsh’s stellar debut performance left an indelible mark on the historic venue, ensuring that the Australian team remains a formidable force in the ongoing series.
With the next Encounter set, the Kangaroos look to build on this momentum, while England will need to regroup and address the defensive weaknesses exposed during this match.
