AUCKLAND: The Wallabies outscored Wales 21 to 18 in a contrasting performance to that of last week's against the All Blacks during the semi-finals. For the first time since 1986 the Wallabies won a match at Eden Park, Auckland. Having defeated Wales, Australia now has a collection of World Cup trophies in order of first, second, third and fourth. Despite receiving much criticism, Quade Cooper was the dominant figure during the first 21 minutes of the match. The timely passed ball from Quade to Berrick Barnes put Australia in the lead at the 12th minute. Quade was unable to prove his heavily questioned skills further as he acquired an injury leaving him clutching his right knee as paramedics escorted him off the field resulting in an unexpected standing ovation from the crowd. The injuries to the Wallabies continued; Nathan Sharpe, Tatafu Polota-Nau and fullback Kurtley Beale's all left the match due to injuries. In the 49th minute Wales took the lead when wing Shane Williams scored. However Australia won the lead back by taking quick penalties and a drop goal but it was McCalman who secured the win in the remaining 4 minutes of the game. BM
