Joe Schmidt proud of Wallabies fightback despite first test loss to the Lions

"I just think that this time last year, I think we probably would have melted, but I love the way this team is developing," he said.

PROUD: Australia's Head Coach Joe Schmidt speaks to the media ahead of the match. Pic: ©INPHO/Billy Stickland.

Australia coach Joe Schmidt conceded that the British & Irish Lions deserved to win the first test on Saturday but thought the Wallabies fightback in the final quarter proved they were developing.

After being dominated by the Lions for an hour, tries from replacements Carlo Tizzano and Tate McDermott got the Wallabies within eight points of the tourists and Schmidt thought they were unlucky not to have a couple more.