Lions Demolish Western Force 54-7: Star Performers, Itoje Partners, and Audition Flops Analyzed

British & Irish Lions Dominate Western Force in Perth Comeback
By Chris Foy | Updated: 14:24 BST, 28 June 2025

The 2025 British & Irish Lions roared back from their opening defeat to Argentina with a commanding 54-7 victory over Western Force in Perth. Despite a sluggish first half, the Lions showcased their class after halftime, scoring 33 unanswered points to secure a statement win ahead of their upcoming Test series against Australia.

The Lions rebounded strongly after their loss to Argentina.

Match Recap
Captain Dan Sheehan set the tone with a try within the first minute, but Western Force responded swiftly with a score from Nic White. The Lions struggled to find rhythm initially, relying on tries from Tomos Williams and Elliot Daly to lead 21-7 at halftime. A halftime pep talk from coach Andy Farrell ignited the squad, as Williams, Garry Ringrose, Joe McCarthy, Daly, and Alex Mitchell piled on five second-half tries.

Dan Sheehan’s early try gave the Lions momentum.

Standout Performers

• Elliot Daly (8.5/10): A masterclass at fullback with two tries, flawless positioning, and creative playmaking. Staked a strong claim for the No. 15 jersey in the Tests.
  Whether it’s rugby, football or cricket, Ellie is obsessed with all things sports. She’s been writing for Valley Rescue Press since 2022. Hailing from Leeds, she’s a die-hard Leeds United supporter and a fantasy football guru. When she’s not analyzing matches, you’ll find her hiking the Yorkshire Dales or binge-watching sports documentaries. Got a hot take? Ellie’s probably already tweeted about it. Follow her @EllieSportsTalk for all the latest chatter!");ELLIE BARNES, SPORTS CORRESPONDENT"}

• Finn Russell (8.5/10): Orchestrated the attack with precision, delivering cross-kick assists and steering the backline. The frontrunner for fly-half duties.
• Joe McCarthy (9/10): Dominant in the second row with relentless physicality. A near-certain starter alongside Maro Itoje against Australia.
• Josh van der Flier (8/10): Tireless in defense and attack, making crucial tackles and support runs.

Elliot Daly shone with two tries and creative flair.

Areas for Improvement
While the Lions’ scrum struggled early, tighthead prop Tadhg Furlong (6/10) and lock Scott Cummings (4/10) faced criticism for set-piece instability and costly errors. Henry Pollock (8/10) dazzled with two try assists but needs to curb his disciplinary lapses.

Test Series Outlook
Farrell will demand sharper starts, but positives abound. McCarthy’s emergence, Russell’s control, and Daly’s versatility bolster the Lions’ depth. Questions linger at scrum-half after Tomos Williams (7/10) exited with an injury scare.

Joe McCarthy’s physicality makes him a Test lock contender.

Player Ratings Snapshot

• Backs: James Lowe (8/10) impressed with instinctive play; Mack Hansen (7.5/10) improved after a shaky start.
• Forwards: Sheehan (7/10) delivered steady lineouts; Tadhg Beirne (6.5/10) was unusually quiet.

The Lions face Queensland Reds next, aiming to build momentum before their July 19 Test opener in Sydney.

Final Score: Western Force 7–54 British & Irish Lions
Tries: Sheehan, Williams (2), Daly (2), Ringrose, McCarthy, Mitchell
Man of the Match: Joe McCarthy

Tomos Williams scored twice in a dynamic display.

For more exclusive Lions coverage, stay tuned to Mail+.

Word count: ~650