The British and Irish Lions gave the Western Force a lesson in ruthless finishing as they kicked off their Australia tour with an ultimately comfortable 54-7 victory in front of a big crowd at Perth Stadium.
Tomos Williams, who later exited with what appeared to be a hamstring injury, and Elliot Daly both crossed twice with skipper Dan Sheehan, Garry Ringrose, Joe McCarthy and Alex Mitchell also scoring as a much-changed Lions team bounced back from their 28-24 loss to Argentina in Dublin last week.
Henry Pollock's first start in a Lions shirt did not disappoint with a line break to set up one try and a chip-and-chase earning the field position for another as well as a yellow card late in the first half.
The Force did enough to assuage the fears of Lions management that the tour matches would not be competitive and a solitary try from veteran Wallabies scrum half Nic White hardly did justice to their contribution to the contest.
Relive all the action from Optus Stadium with our live blog below:
Lions vs Western Force live
- Lions hammer the Western Force 54-7 in Perth to bounce back from defeat to Argentina
- Scrum half Tomos Williams limping off with a hamstring injury is the main concern for the Lions
- REPORT: Tomos Williams injury mars rampant Lions thrashing of Western Force
- TRY! Western Force 0-7 LIONS (Dan Sheehan, 2 minutes)
- TRY! Western Force 7-14 LIONS (Tomos Williams, 17 minutes)
- TRY! Western Force 7-21 LIONS (Elliot Daly, 36 minutes)
- TRY! Western Force 7-26 LIONS (Tomos Williams, 47 minutes)
- TRY! Western Force 7-47 LIONS (Elliot Daly, 72 minutes)
Tomos Williams injury mars rampant Lions thrashing of Western Force
14:29 , Luke BakerThe British and Irish Lions claimed their first victory on Australian soil by overwhelming Western Force 54-7, but a possible injury crisis is brewing at scrum half after Tomos Williams was forced off.
Williams was among the Lions’ star performers at Optus Stadium but his match was over when he injured his left hamstring during the act of finishing his second try in the 47th minute.
The Wales half-back limped from the pitch to leave the Lions sweating on his fitness given Jamison Gibson-Park has yet to play on tour because of a glute problem, potentially leaving Alex Mitchell as the only available option in the position.
It was the biggest disappointment of a mixed evening for Andy Farrell’s men, who bounced back from their 28-24 defeat by Argentina with an eight-try demolition of the weakest of Australia’s Super Rugby franchises while exposing areas of concern.
Tomos Williams injury mars rampant Lions thrashing of Western Force
Andy Farrell: Mack Hansen showed 'the sort of spirit we want'
13:40 , Luke BakerHead coach Andy Farrell has given his initial thoughts on the performance and singled out winger Mack Hansen as doing good stuff.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Farrell said: “Again, a new-ish team. Plenty of learning from last week and the same again from this week.
"When we get out composure in the second half we was able be nice and calm.
"I mean, let's be honest, the Force took it to us. I thought they played a tough high-percentage game. They kept the ball really well and we kept them in good field pos through our ill discipline.
"It was a real good test for us in that first half glad how we composed ourselves at half-time and kept our composure throughout the second half.
"It is nice to get tries on the board and a few good individual performances. That is all good for the future, and we have to keep pushing one another.
"If you want to look what a Lion should do for his team-mates is when Mack Hansen went up and down the field and fought for his team-mates. That's the sort of spirit we want."
On Tomos Williams injury: "Tight hamstring. You don't know what these things are like. We will assess that."
Henry Pollock 'certainly lived up to the hype' says Nic White
13:22 , Luke BakerFormer Exeter Chief and Australia international Nic White skippered Western Force and scored their only try.
He picked out Henry Pollock as someone who impressed for the Lions.
Speaking to Sky Sports, White said: “Towards the end, the Lions were able to stay at that intensity longer than us, as expected with four international sides together.
"We thought we put them under pressure but just couldn't take some of the opportunities we had. We certainly enjoyed it a lot. We are disappointed it fell away a bit at the end but that is what a quality Lions side can do.
"Henry Pollock certainly lived up to the hype. From 50 minutes plus they kept the intensity and he came into his own. It was so exciting for our guys to go up against them and in front of a record crowd it was unbelievable.
"There were some moments we were quite happy with but they showed their class. We did ourselves proud in the first 40-50 minutes and we will enjoy it now, we will share a jersey and a beer with them. What a way to start the tour."
Dan Sheehan reflects on 'special' day but still 'plenty to work on'
13:12 , Luke BakerLions skipper Dan Sheehan was impressive and discussed his first game in a Lions shirt, as well as the improvements needed
Sheehan, speaking to Sky Sports, said: “It was a really special day for me and a lot of other lads.
“Something special and something you watch growing up and wanting to be in this jersey. Happy with that result, but there is plenty for us to work on. We started really well, but our discipline let them back in.
"We were inaccurate with their restarts. We are still getting used to each other and those new combinations.
"From here on in, it is coming thick and fast. Every team we come up against will be hungrier than ever."
Joe McCarthy 'blew the cobwebs off' in Lions win
13:03 , Luke BakerJoe McCarthy was named as player of the match for the Lions and the Irish lock has reflected on blowing off the cobwebs.
McCarthy, speaking to Sky Sports, said: "It was tough. A lot of kicking, Australians like to play ball and play quickly. It was great fun.
"We felt like we had them, and they came back hard and a bit of discipline let them back into it - we will get better with it.
"We want to be a ruthless side but there’s plenty more to improve on.
"I think I blew the cobwebs off - I should be flying through the tour now."
Western Force 7-54 British and Irish Lions
12:53 , Luke BakerA job well done in the end by the Lions. Some work-ons as ever (hello restarts...) but they’re building into the tour nicely
FT: Western Force 7-54 British and Irish Lions
12:50 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe injury to Tomos Williams will be a concern, though - it looked like a hamstring for the Wales nine. We await updates on the severity of the issue and hope that he pulls up ok.
FT: Western Force 7-54 British and Irish Lions
12:49 , Harry Latham-CoyleA mixed bag from the Lions in the first half, moments of magic interspersed with some ill discipline and some surprisingly sloppy territorial play - but their attack really clicked at times in the second, with yet more signs of what the coaching staff are trying to develop in terms of ball movement. The first win of the tour, of course, and a decent enough way to bounce back from defeat in Dublin.
From one end to another in NO TIME! ⚡️
— Sky Sports (@SkySports) June 28, 2025
Tomos Williams finishes off a flowing Lions counterattack! 😍 pic.twitter.com/qAtHVJx7YB
FULL TIME: Western Force 7-54 British and Irish Lions
12:46 , Harry Latham-CoyleTRY! Western Force 7-54 LIONS (Alex Mitchell, 81 minutes)
12:46 , Harry Latham-CoyleThey do! The Lions raise the bat as they hit 50 with the final play, Alex Mitchell scoring after Sione Tuipulotu and Mack Hansen had created a break.
The conversion is there from Marcus Smith and that’ll be that.
Western Force 7-47 Lions, 80 minutes
12:44 , Harry Latham-CoyleOne last chance for the Western Force as time ticks away. They return to the Lions 22 for the first time in a while and set about making further inroads, Matt Proctor bumping back Marcus Smith initially but finding the Englishman able to cling on.
Good speed off the line from the tourists, pushing their hosts deeper. Elliot Daly drags Proctor towards the touchline and an errant offload lands in the hands of Mack Hansen - do the Lions fancy one more?
Western Force 7-47 Lions, 78 minutes
12:43 , Harry Latham-CoyleOh dear - a dummy throw ends that chance. Not the best moment for replacement hooker Tom Horton, whisked in late after injury struck one-cap England international Nic Dolly in the warm-up.
It’s slightly unclear who is captaining the Lions, by the way - it might be Ollie Chessum, Joe McCarthy or Sione Tuipulotu - or a committee approach. One can’t see it mattering much in these final moments.
Western Force 7-47 Lions, 77 minutes
12:41 , Harry Latham-CoyleNow then, can the Force finish with a flourish? The Lions are penalised on halfway and the Australian side boot down towards the 22.
Western Force 7-47 Lions, 75 minutes
12:40 , Harry Latham-CoyleSione Tuipulotu has got through some serious graft in these first two tour games, back-to-back 80 minutes beckoning for the Scottish midfielder.
Western Force 7-47 Lions, 74 minutes
12:37 , Harry Latham-CoyleA reminder that it was 69-17 in this equivalent fixture 12 years ago - the Force have been better tonight than the scoreline shoes and will rue their missed opportunities in the first half. You always felt, though, that this sort of second-half surge would come from the Lions.
TRY! Western Force 7-47 LIONS (Elliot Daly, 72 minutes)
12:36 , Harry Latham-CoyleA Saturday stroll for Elliot Daly as the Lions near 50! Patience the key to this score, not panicking after their initial efforts had been repelled - and Daly rather had the freedom of Western Australia to saunter in after Marcus Smith had found him. A tidy little performance from Daly, this.
Western Force 7-40 Lions, 70 minutes
12:34 , Harry Latham-CoyleAnother penalty at the maul is returned to that corner. The Lions play off the top this time.
Western Force 7-40 Lions, 69 minutes
12:32 , Harry Latham-CoyleA high tackle on Henry Pollock earns the Lions a penalty, which Marcus Smith prods to five out. The Force just struggling to combat the pressure coming on them. Ronan Kelleher hits his jumper...
Western Force 7-40 Lions, 68 minutes
12:31 , Harry Latham-CoyleSlightly aimless from Marcus Smith, there, he and those outside him not on the same page as he chips across. The play beforehand had been really pleasant, too, with Elliot Daly, James Lowe and Mack Hansen again connecting well.
Ronan Kelleher has arrived, meaning a new captain for the Lions. A fine outing from Dan Sheehan, despite his side’s early ill discipline.
Western Force 7-40 Lions, 65 minutes
12:29 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe Western Force have emptied their bench, Tiaan Tauakipulu stepping in at tighthead. The Lions are sniffing points in this final 15 minutes, keeping the intensity high defensively - Mack Hansen is unfortunate that an excellent tackle sends the ball tumbling over the touchline off his right hand.
Western Force 7-40 Lions, 62 minutes
12:26 , Harry Latham-CoyleClose! The Sione Tuipulotu/Huw Jones connection nearly strikes for the Lions, but Hamish Stewart somehow manages to get back and clutch an ankle just as Jones looks to have sliced through after Tuipulotu’s clever misdirection and pass.
Marcus Smith is on for the Lions - he goes to fly half with Finn Russell off. Tomos Williams, by the way, has plenty of strapping on his hamstring after that earlier injury, and gets a consoling arm around the shoulder from Pierre Schoeman.
Western Force 7-40 Lions, 61 minutes
12:23 , Harry Latham-CoyleOr, at the very least, earn a penalty which Finn Russell boots down to the corner.
Western Force 7-40 Lions, 60 minutes
12:23 , Harry Latham-CoyleDan Sheehan is still out there trucking on, Ronan Kelleher made to wait for another Lions appearance with the rest of the bench forwards emptied. The Lions feel like they can score with every touch - and a knock-on from replacement Western Force scrum half Henry Robertson will give them a chance to set a platform at the scrum.
Western Force 7-40 Lions, 57 minutes
12:20 , Harry Latham-CoyleHenry Pollock has stayed scrummaging at No 8 even with Jack Conan introduced, the bulkier Irishman perhaps providing extra mass through the back of Will Stuart.
Huw Jones is on for a Lions debut - the Scottish centre immediately plucks an intercept but can’t retrieve his hack ahead.
TRY! Western Force 7-40 LIONS (Joe McCarthy, 55 minutes)
12:17 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe Lions open things up again! This is turning into a bit of a romp, and Henry Pollock is loving it, back from the bin and showing off his footballing skills with a chip and chase.
Support arrives just in time to reload possession and exploit the space left on the far side, where lumbering Joe McCarthy has the simple job of gathering and grounding a loopy wide pass.
Western Force 7-33 Lions, 54 minutes
12:16 , Harry Latham-CoyleAndrew Porter and Will Stuart have certainly made this Lions team more hirstute, each with a great mop of hair bouncing around the back of their necks and moustaches on show, too. They combine to do some damage, throwing a Western Force carrier out of the nightclub.
TRY! Western Force 7-33 LIONS (Garry Ringrose, 52 minutes)
12:14 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe Lions strut their stuff again! Too good, this time, for a tiring Western Force defence on the edges, sharp hands from Finn Russell, Sione Tuipulotu and Elliot Daly linking the chain out to Mack Hansen on the wide outside. His basketball toss over the top allows Garry Ringrose to stride in untouched. Those midfield connections are really starting to click.
Western Force 7-26 Lions, 51 minutes
12:12 , Harry Latham-CoylePlenty of changes on the field tonight for the Lions, with Henry Pollock also returning. Andrew Porter, Will Stuart, Ollie Chessum and Jack Conan are all on in the pack.
Western Force 7-26 Lions, 49 minutes
12:12 , Harry Latham-CoyleLet’s hope that Williams injury isn’t as serious as one fears. I saw a disappointed Jack van Poortvliet dragging his Lions hold-all through Dublin Airport last Saturday as he returned to England to link up with Steve Borthwick’s side for the tour to Argentina - having been with the squad for a week already, might he be in pole position to replace Williams were it required? Ben White, now clear of Toulon after their Top 14 exit, might well be an option, too.
TRY! Western Force 7-26 LIONS (Tomos Williams, 47 minutes)
12:10 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe Lions go the length! There really has been some sublime stuff mixed in with the ridiculous today, but this is a thing of beauty, sparked from within the shadow of their own goalposts.
Credit to the Lions for playing eyes-up rugby and spotting the opportunity is on - Mack Hansen makes the initial burst and James Lowe is there in support, combining a couple of times with Tomos Williams before the Welsh scrum half scores.
This is a a major worry, though, for Williams - his hamstring looks to have twinged in the process of scoring. Away he limps as Alex Mitchell takes his place; with Jamison Gibson-Park not yet available after injury, though in line to feature against the Reds, this could be a real headache for Andy Farrell.
Western Force 7-21 Lions, 45 minutes
12:06 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe resultant lineout doesn’t quite work out for the British and Irish Lions, not all ills of Dublin cured. And that’s soft, too, a crossing line run to block a chaser as Elliot Daly goes up for an aerial contest - Mack Hansen the man picked out. After really good discipline against Argentina, the Lions have been below the required standards in that regard today.
Western Force 7-21 Lions, 43 minutes
12:05 , Harry Latham-CoyleAh, a shame for the Force - livewire Mac Grealy bursts to within seven metres or so of the Lions line but there had been a neck roll from Brandon Paenga-Amosa some way back in the movement. After an intervention from the television match official, referee Ben O’Keeffe awards the Lions a penalty just outside their own 22.
Western Force 7-21 Lions, 41 minutes
12:03 , Harry Latham-CoyleLions scrum coach John Fogarty managed to get in a shot at Western Force scrum half Nic White in his half-time chat with Sky Sports, the jocular Irishman suggesting that the veteran nine was waiting over the ball at the ruck and thus drawing the Lions offside - as he is perfectly entitled to. The Lions haven’t looked totally in sync around the fringes today.
Second half...
12:01 , Harry Latham-CoyleRight, the Western Force’s 15 players and the Lions’ 14 are back out there - Henry Pollock on the naughty step for nine minutes more. Back underway.
HT: Western Force 7-21 Lions
11:50 , Harry Latham-CoyleAnother proper test for the Lions, the Western Force giving them all they had in that first half and unfortunate to go in to the interval two scores down having dominated possession and territory. But the class and canniness of the tourists has shown, with Finn Russell just the sort of man for this sort of open game - he’s crafted two of the three tries, with Henry Pollock prominent in the third. Back for more in a bit - though he will not be, of course, having been sent to the sin bin just before the half-time hooter.
HALF TIME: Western Force 7-21 Lions
11:47 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Western Force 7-21 Lions, 41 minutes
11:46 , Harry Latham-CoyleA key defensive stand, that, from the Lions’ 14 men, first stalling the maul then holding up a would-be try-scorer over the line. They hold firm through to the half.
YELLOW CARD! Henry Pollock is sent to the sin bin! Western Force 7-21 Lions, 40 minutes
11:45 , Harry Latham-CoyleHenry Pollock thinks he’s jackalled for a turnover, and is slightly perplexed when Ben O’Keeffe whistles him for a not-releasing penalty - and even more so when he’s sent to the sin bin! The youngster pays for the collective indiscipline earlier and the Lions lose a man for the next ten minutes.
Western Force 7-21 Lions, 38 minutes
11:43 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe Wallabies caused havoc against England with their restarts, and Joseph-Aukuso Sua’ali’i particularly, last November, and Joe Schmidt will be licking his lips looking at the British and Irish Lions in the first half. Another clever kick from the Western Force with Dylan Pietsch again used as a chaser earns a penalty - Pietsch has plenty of experience in sevens, where restarts really are used as a weapon.
TRY! Western Force 7-21 LIONS (Elliot Daly, 36 minutes)
11:41 , Harry Latham-CoyleHe has! Sheer impudence and ingenuity from Finn Russell, the Scottish fly half always a step ahead.
Russell feigns to line up for a kick at goal from a penalty but the call is never made and the tee never on. He is therefore perfectly obliged to tap-and-go, and duly exploits space left by a Western Force defence caught napping.
A dummy takes him within five metres and Elliot Daly is on hand to score from Russell’s pop. A bit of a fracas after the try is scored is seemingly sparked by Henry Pollock’s enthusiastic celebrations but the score itself is all good - and converted by the No 10.
Western Force 7-14 Lions, 36 minutes
11:39 , Harry Latham-CoyleThere’s plenty of fatigue out there given these long, very open passages.
Hang on - what’s happened there? Has Finn Russell created something out of nowhere?
Western Force 7-14 Lions, 35 minutes
11:38 , Harry Latham-CoyleHenry Pollock hits the deck after a clip of the heels from Tom Robertson...was it deliberate? The officials are happy, but I think the loosehead might have known what he was doing, the prop rather not fancying a footrace against the young gun after Sione Tuipulotu’s grubber. As it is, just a goalline dropout for the hosts.
Western Force 7-14 Lions, 34 minutes
11:37 , Harry Latham-CoyleDelicious! A gorgeous clip over the top from Finn Russell for Hansen, who gathers and charges on...only to find the ball ripped from his grasp! More nifty scramble defence from the Perth side.
Ooh, a spot of bother for James Lowe but how well does he do to extricate himself? A fierce fend allows him to escape his own in-goal area and use that thumping left boot to clear.
Western Force 7-14 Lions, 32 minutes
11:35 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe Western Force have had the edge at scrum-time so far, Tom Robertson putting Tadhg Furlong under pressure repeatedly, and have the solidity to play away again.
Into a kicking exchange. Another James Lowe banana is well covered by the Western Force backfield, but Finn Russell returns their repply with interest, sending Mack Hansen further onwards. The Lions will play from inside their own half.
WATCH: Henry Pollock creates try for Tomos Williams
11:34 , Harry Latham-CoyleHenry Pollock sets up a BRILLIANT Lions try! 🦁⚡️ pic.twitter.com/1JqFMglaRH
— Sky Sports (@SkySports) June 28, 2025
Western Force 7-14 Lions, 30 minutes
11:33 , Harry Latham-CoyleA glimpse for Mack Hansen! The Lions up the line speed and a sharp spot-tackle from Garry Ringrose forces the ball free from Matt Proctor. If Hansen scoops off his shoelaces, he might just have had the gas to get home; as it is, it’ll be a Western Force scrum for his fumble.
Proctor’s come up sore after that Ringrose tackle. In fact, so has the Irishman. I don’t think either is serious but we’ll take a pause.
Western Force 7-14 Lions, 29 minutes
11:31 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe Lions looked a little short of ball-players in their backline in Dublin but they are properly stacked here, Elliot Daly and Mack Hansen both stepping in as distributors as Andy Farrell continues to try to groove the multifaceted attack he favours. There have been some bright signs in this half but the Western Force are scrambling effectively enough.
Western Force 7-14 Lions, 27 minutes
11:30 , Harry Latham-CoyleGarry Ringrose goes haring after a Mack Hansen chip - the wing unable to chase having been belted in the ribs by the busy Pietsch - and gets his hands on it, though can’t quite grasp it. The conditions are excellent in Perth, dry and temperate, but both sides are struggling a little to cling on to the ball amidst plenty of ambition being shown.
Western Force 7-14 Lions, 24 minutes
11:27 , Harry Latham-CoyleBlimey is Dylan Pietsch making some case to Joe Schmidt tonight. Released from the Wallabies squad to feature in this game, the wing is much too hot for the Lions to handle, bouncing and bumping out of a couple of tackles before connecting with Ben Donaldson. Pietsch looks well placed to take Donaldson’s return but can’t quite gather under pressure from Sione Tuipulotu.
Western Force 7-14 Lions, 22 minutes
11:26 , Harry Latham-CoyleBetter stuff from the Lions defensively, not chancing their arm at the breakdown after all of those early problems of discipline.
Unlucky! A fine aerial take and transfer from Elliot Daly allows James Lowe a chance to go for a 50:22, which is a foot from perfection - his spiralled effort lands and skips towards the touchline but pops just past the post in the corner. All the way back they will come for a scrum where he kicked it - a real shame, as that was a serious bit of skill, but that is the risk and reward.
Western Force 7-14 Lions, 21 minutes
11:24 , Harry Latham-CoyleMore bright attacking interplay from the tourists as Finn Russell really starts to illustrate, brushstrokes broad and rather more precise as he sweeps across the canvas. A lovely one-two with Scottish chum Scott Cummings threatens to set Sione Tuipulotu free but the Western Force cling on, and eventually draw a handling error.
Western Force 7-14 Lions, 19 minutes
11:22 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe restart is an underrated area of importance within the game, and the British and Irish Lions haven’t quite been right so far, almost contriving to lose another with Dylan Pietsch once more surging up the left. The ball comes forward off his fingers.
A solid scrum allows the Lions to hoist an up-and-under, from which the Western Force are penalised.
Western Force 7-14 Lions
11:21 , Luke BakerA rip-roaring start to the match in Perth.
TRY! Western Force 7-14 LIONS (Tomos Williams, 17 minutes)
11:20 , Harry Latham-CoyleCreated by Henry Pollock, finished by Tomos Williams! Another cracker from the Lions.
This is lovely from the young England back row. It’s his initial sharp pass at the line that sends Josh van der Flier ushering into a half-gap, but Pollock isn’t done, staying alive and with his teammate to be right on the shoulder when the offload comes. A flash of acceleration keeps him clear of the chasing defenders and the 20-year-old then has the presence of mind to find Williams, supporting as all scrum halves should, to finish the job. Finn Russell converts again.
Western Force 7-7 Lions, 15 minutes
11:18 , Harry Latham-CoyleMuch more like it from Andy Farrell’s men. Elliot Daly flips the field with a raking left-footed punt and the kick from Garry Ringrose is canny, too, prodding a trotter through the back of it to trap the Western Force in. It sets up a good attacking platform for the Lions, who have had just a fifth of the territory so far.
Western Force 7-7 Lions, 14 minutes
11:16 , Harry Latham-CoyleMcCarthy gets his paws on the pill again, though I’m not sure he was totally on his feet when he plucked it after Tahdg Beirne had caused some ruck chaos.
It does allow the Lions to clear more fully. They set their defensive line just inside their own half after a Henry Pollock fumble brings about another turnover.
Western Force 7-7 Lions, 13 minutes
11:14 , Harry Latham-CoyleOutstanding from Joe McCarthy! The Lions lock is a single man maul wrecking crew, wrestling on to the ball and then extracting it from the jumble of limbs to rather save his side’s bacon. Tomos Williams clears out of the 22 to provide some much-needed respite for the tourists.
Western Force 7-7 Lions, 12 minutes
11:13 , Harry Latham-CoyleA sloppy set-piece prevents the Force from getting a rumble on again but they reset effectively, Nic White picking his runners around the corner. And this is pretty ropey stuff from the Lions - a soft offside penalty and Dan Sheehan is beckoned over for a chat about the sheer number of infringements. That’s the fourth inside 12 minutes, and White’s try was scored under advantage. Sione Tuipulotu the guilty party, this time.
Western Force 7-7 Lions, 10 minutes
11:12 , Harry Latham-CoyleDonaldson dices with danger, nearly sending his punt dead, but the Force will have a five-metre lineout. They manipulate a penalty from the maul - I suspect this will be returned to the corner.
Indeed it is - though blindside flanker Will Harris has been whistled off for a head injury assessment. On comes experienced back row Reed Prinsep, a regular Maori All Black over the last decade before his move to Perth.
Western Force 7-7 Lions, 8 minutes
11:10 , Harry Latham-CoyleDylan Pietsch is everywhere! The left wing inserts in a channel wide on the right to provide extra hands to make a break.
Down into the 22 the Force surge, before Ben O’Keeffe blasts on his whistle - the Lions penalised again right in front of their own sticks. Ben Donaldson will prod to the corner...
Western Force 7-7 Lions, 7 minutes
11:09 , Harry Latham-CoyleSloppy from Tadhg Beirne, a busting carry from Dylan Pietsch leaving the Lions slightly in retreat but the Irishman rather needlessly lying all over the ball to deny the Force quick ball. A soft penalty.
TRY! WESTERN FORCE 7-7 Lions (Nic White, 5 minutes)
11:07 , Harry Latham-CoyleIt’s a night for the skippers! If the big blokes can’t do it, why not let a littl’un? Nic White spots space adjacent to a ruck and burrows beneath opposite number Tomos Williams.
Ben Donaldson curls the conversion through. Lively!
Western Force 0-7 Lions, 5 minutes
11:06 , Harry Latham-CoyleAround the corner the forwards plough...advantage earned, so Nic White will spread it. Can Ben Donaldson get there? No, taken by Mack Hansen, but perhaps high...
Western Force 0-7 Lions, 4 minutes
11:05 , Harry Latham-CoyleA perfect start for the Lions - but that’s less good, the restart not claimed and possession handed to the Western Force after good chasing from Dylan Pietsch. Can the hosts reply quickly?
TRY! Western Force 0-7 LIONS (Dan Sheehan try, 2 minutes)
11:04 , Harry Latham-CoyleWhat a start for Dan Sheehan and the Lions!
Given the captaincy, and a try inside two minutes! A dream beginning for the hooker and this is a corking score. Sheehan hugs the touchline, as he is so accustom to doing for Ireland, and takes a lovely Finn Russell crosskick. His pop inside frees James Lowe who then bends the ball out the back with a deft offload, sending Sheehan cantering over the line. Superb!
Western Force 0-0 Lions, 1 minute
11:02 , Harry Latham-CoyleA slightly shaky first pass from Ben Donaldson, nearly evading fellow playmaker Alex Harford - who just about manages to claim and clear to touch.
Into their attacking shape the Lions settle with James Lowe stepping in to the line early, roaming off the wing as is his wont.
KICK OFF!
11:01 , Harry Latham-CoyleUnderway in Perth.
Lions vs Western Force
10:57 , Harry Latham-CoyleRight, here we go. It was 69-17 in this equivalent fixture 12 years ago, the Western Force blown away as the British and Irish Lions found form. Can they keep things closer?
British and Irish Lions vs Western Force
10:55 , Harry Latham-CoyleThis will be a great moment for some of the Western Force stalwarts who have bounced back after the club was initially axed from Super Rugby in 2017, the Perth side returning to somewhere near their best in recent years. It’s a really good crowd in tonight in a city not always in love with its rugby.
Can the Lions fix their lineout?
10:45 , Harry Latham-CoyleThere is a tweaked balance to the back row for the Lions today, perhaps reflecting the lineout wobbles that hampered them against Argentina. Having fielded three shorter flankers, essentially, at six, seven and eight in Dublin, it was little surprise that the arrows didn’t quite land, but it has perhaps forced a re-think from Andy Farrell.
Tadhg Beirne shifts a row back to provide an extra long-limbed leaper, and he or Ollie Chessum could yet be deployed there come the Tests. Jack Conan’s presence on the bench feels significant, too, given his capacity as a real power carrier being unique among the options at Farrell’s disposal. In a squad heavy on opensides, the back-row composition is one of the most interesting storylines to track through these tour games.
The fans are out in (ahem) Force
10:40 , Harry Latham-Coyle
A dangerous Force backline
10:35 , Harry Latham-CoyleAnchoring up front will be the primary task for Ollie Hoskins but there is plenty of attacking talent in the hosts’ backline. Speedster Dylan Pietsch went to an Olympics with the Aussie sevens side and is joined in the back three by Ben Donaldson after injury to Kurtley Beale, with the playmaker having enjoyed a fine Super Rugby Pacific season. Centre Matt Proctor, meanwhile, was key in developing the next generation of talent at Northampton after a commendable stint beforehand with a ridiculously fun Hurricanes team in Wellington.
And as for scrum half Nic White...well, the Lions fringe defenders and the referee will expect an earful from the ever-chatty nine, but his ability to control a game could be key if the Western Force are to spring a shock.
Farewell to Ollie Hoskins
10:25 , Harry Latham-CoyleFans of London Irish and Saracens will be very familiar with Western Force tighthead Ollie Hoskins, who has returned to his home city of Perth for a last outing before retirement today. The prop made an unlikely Wallabies debut in 2021 in Twickenham, his west London location helpful after a bit of an injury crisis for Australia and enabling Hoskins to fulfil a boyhood dream he thought had passed him by. This will be a lovely end for a popular chap who was a key figure at Irish during the uncertain period before the club’s demise, helping to keep the squad informed and together.
Finn Russell sets sights on Lions success after long-awaited title triumph with Bath
10:15 , Harry Latham-CoyleA first outing of the tour for Finn Russell is pleasing news for a player who really seems ready to relish every minute of this experience. The Scot’s past two Lions trips have been odd, part of the “Geography Six” in 2017 and then hampered by injury on the Covid-wrecked South Africa tour four years ago - the fly half looks to have the inside track to the No 10 shirt for the Tests and his midfield combination with Sione Tuipulotu and Garry Ringrose today could yet be the one fielded in Brisbane on 19 July.
Finn Russell sets sights on Lions success after long-awaited title triumph with Bath
Team news - Lions
10:05 , Harry Latham-CoyleDan Sheehan leads the Lions in their opening tour game on Australian soil, with Maro Itoje one of a number to drop out of Andy Farrell’s matchday squad after the defeat to Argentina. Only Sione Tuipulotu and Tadhg Beirne, shifted to inside centre and six respectively, retain their starting spots as Farrell rings the changes to put time into his wider squad.
Now over their URC exertions, the Leinster contingent is healthy, with Sheehan joined by eight others from the Dublin club even with Jamison Gibson-Park and Hugo Keenan ruled out due to injury. Henry Pollock starts at No 8 with Elliot Daly stationed at full-back and Finn Russell taking the reins at 10.
Lions XV: 1 Pierre Schoeman, 2 Dan Sheehan (capt.), 3 Tadhg Furlong; 4 Scott Cummings, 5 Joe McCarthy; 6 Tadhg Beirne, 7 Josh van der Flier, 8 Henry Pollock; 9 Tomos Williams, 10 Finn Russell; 11 James Lowe, 12 Sione Tuipulotu, 13 Garry Ringrose, 14 Mack Hansen; 15 Elliot Daly.
Replacements: 16 Ronan Kelleher, 17 Andrew Porter, 18 Will Stuart, 19 Ollie Chessum, 20 Jack Conan; 21 Alex Mitchell, 22 Huw Jones, 23 Marcus Smith.
Our team for Saturday night's Tour opener in Perth! 🦁#Lions2025
— British & Irish Lions (@lionsofficial) June 26, 2025
Team news - Western Force
10:00 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe Western Force were hoping to have Kurtley Beale at their disposal, but the veteran playmaker, who featured against the Lions in 2013, has been denied a reunion by a hamstring issue. Beale will feature for the First Nations & Pasifika XV later in the tour. Ben Donaldson is whisked in from Wallabies camp to start in his stead at full-back, with Nic White adding all of his expertise and competitive spirit at scrum half.
Ex-Northampton centre Matt Proctor provides yet more experience in the backline while there is plenty of quality up front, where former London Irish and Saracens prop Ollie Hoskins earns a final outing before retirement.
Western Force XV: 1 Tom Robertson, 2 Brandon Paenga-Amosa, 3 Ollie Hoskins; 4 Sam Carter, 5 Darcy Swain; 6 Will Harris, 7 Nick Champion de Crespigny, 8 Vaiolini Ekuasi; 9 Nic White (capt.), 10 Alex Harford; 11 Dylan Pietsch, 12 Hamish Stewart, 13 Matt Proctor, 14 Mac Grealy; 15 Ben Donaldson
Replacements: 16 Nic Dolly, 17 Marley Pearce, 18 Tiaan Tauakipulu, 19 Lopeti Faifua, 20 Reed Prinsep; 21 Henry Robertson, 22 Max Burey, 23 Bayley Kuenzie.
📝 Here it is...#StrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/UXJvujxGWN
— Western Force (@westernforce) June 26, 2025
Henry Pollock tipped to fly high on the biggest stage by Lions boss Andy Farrell
09:45 , Harry Latham-CoyleAndy Farrell insists Henry Pollock has the temperament to thrive on the biggest stage after giving the England star his first start for the British and Irish Lions.
Pollock made his Lions debut as a replacement in the 28-24 defeat by Ireland that opened the tour and has now been promoted to number eight for today’s first fixture on Australian soil against Western Force in Perth.
Henry Pollock tipped to fly high on the biggest stage by Lions boss Andy Farrell
Wallabies boss Joe Schmidt rejects Lions’ demands as player release row rumbles on
09:30 , Harry Latham-CoyleThose comments were immediately refuted by Joe Schmidt, who claimed he had read the tour agreement and was under no such obligation to make more Wallabies available - though Australia have since released a couple of Reds to feature in the midweek game on Wednesday.
Wallabies boss Joe Schmidt rejects Lions’ demands as player release row rumbles on
British and Irish Lions warn Wallabies they must release players for tour games
09:20 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe British and Irish Lions have warned Australia they will be in breach of contract if they fail to release their Test stars for all tour games involving Super Rugby teams.
Wallabies head coach Joe Schmidt has allowed Western Force players Nick Champion De Crespigny, Dylan Pietsch, Tom Robertson, Darcy Swain, Ben Donaldson and Nic White to take part in today’s first match Down Under in Perth.
However, almost all of those from the Reds, Waratahs and Brumbies, including big names such as Joseph-Aukuso Sua’ali’i and Rob Valetini, will not face the Lions until the Test series.
Given Australia’s lack of depth, Schmidt is keen to avoid picking up any injuries while their warm-up fixture against Fiji in Newcastle on 6 July, which takes place the day after the tourists meet the Waratahs, is another obstacle.
However, Lions chief executive Ben Calveley has reminded the hosts of the terms of the tour contract, knowing Andy Farrell’s men want to play the toughest possible opposition to provide adequate preparation for the opening Test on 19 July.
British and Irish Lions warn Wallabies they must release players for tour games
Australia coach Joe Schmidt takes sly dig at Lions with ‘southern hemisphere’ centres comment
09:15 , Harry Latham-CoyleJoe Schmidt didn’t necessarily help matters when he stirred the pot with a comment about the centre pairing of Bundee Aki and Sione Tuipulotu last week - and the Wallabies boss has been in the headlines again ahead of this game...
Australia coach takes sly dig at Lions with ‘southern hemisphere’ centres comment
The complex eligibility debate at the heart of the British and Irish Lions squad
09:00 , Harry Latham-CoyleWith the help of Sione Tuipulotu and James Lowe, I took an in-depth look at the debate surrounding the foreign-born contingent ahead of the tour:
The complex eligibility debate at the heart of the British and Irish Lions squad
Pierre Schoeman hits back at critics of foreign-born British and Irish Lions
08:45 , Harry Latham-CoyleThere has been a bit of chatter this week about the significant contingent in the squad born outside of Britain and Ireland, with some senior rugby figures, including Lions legend Willie John McBride, expressing their distaste. Prop Pierre Schoeman, who has just launched a whisky brand with Duhan van der Merwe, hit back at the critics.
Pierre Schoeman hits back at critics of foreign-born British and Irish Lions
British and Irish Lions squad: Player-by-player guide to the 38 selected by Andy Farrell
08:30 , Harry Latham-CoyleIf Dan Sheehan did want to know a little bit more about each and every member of the touring party, perhaps he should read The Independent’s player-by-player guide to the 2025 British and Irish Lions squad. And you can to, right here:
Dan Sheehan goes from ‘despising’ Ellis Genge to loving ‘funny bloke’ Lions prop
08:15 , Harry Latham-CoyleDan Sheehan gets a chance to captain the Lions today, which is a mark of how highly Andy Farrell rates the hooker’s leadership and perhaps a bit of contingency planning were misfortune to strike Maro Itoje before one of the Tests. Sheehan is surely a certain starter come the clashes with the Wallabies, though it’s familiarising himself with some of his front row cohort that has been the focus over the last week or so...
Dan Sheehan goes from ‘despising’ Ellis Genge to loving ‘funny bloke’ Lions prop
Henry Pollock given golden Lions opportunity with Western Force start at No 8
08:00 , Harry Latham-CoyleAfter picking from a slightly smaller squad in Dublin with the URC and Premiership finalists largely not considered, Andy Farrell was always likely to bring in his Leinster lot - plus Finn Russell, Ollie Chessum and Will Stuart - for this game in Perth. There are still a few intriguing selections in his 23, though, including a chance for Henry Pollock to bounce back from a rare blip in a remarkable year.
Henry Pollock given golden Lions opportunity with Western Force start at No 8
When do the British and Irish Lions play Australia? Full tour schedule
07:40 , Harry Latham-CoyleSo to Australia, then, for the second tour outing and first Down Under as preparations continue for the three Tests against the Wallabies. Need a reminder of the full schedule? We’ve got you covered...
When do the Lions play Australia? Full tour schedule and how to watch on TV
Why the Lions should take positives from ‘clunky’ Argentina defeat despite Andy Farrell fury
07:25 , Harry Latham-CoyleThat said, there was plenty that will have pleased Andy Farrell about the opening outing, from the ambition his team showed with ball-in-hand to the first signs of the structures and shapes that may prove crucial come the Tests.
Why the Lions can take positives from ‘clunky’ Argentina defeat despite Farrell fury
Andy Farrell admits Lions ‘have to be better’ after Argentina defeat
07:15 , Harry Latham-CoyleAndy Farrell was not a happy man after the 2025 British and Irish Lions crop’s first showing, refusing to allow excuses to be made for the performance.
Andy Farrell admits Lions ‘have to be better’ after Argentina defeat
Argentina spoil Lions’ leaving party as tour begins with defeat in Dublin
Friday 27 June 2025 11:15 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe Lions have one game and one defeat already under their belts - I was in Dublin to see Argentina produce a fine performance and excellent victory.
Argentina spoil Lions’ leaving party as tour begins with defeat in Dublin
British and Irish Lions vs Western Force live
Friday 27 June 2025 11:13 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe British and Irish Lions have landed in Australia and begin life Down Under with an intriguing meeting with the Western Force. It was a disappointing start for the tourists as the curtain came up on their summer with defeat to Argentina in Dublin, leaving Andy Farrell ticking - though there was plenty to encourage the Lions head coach, too.
To Perth, then, for the first match of the tour proper. Kick off at Optus Stadium is at 11am BST.
