In episode two of the Magic of Bledisloe series we look back at one of the greatest try-saving tackles in world Rugby history, the tackle that secured the Bledisloe Cup trophy for Australia.
In 1994 a single Bledisloe Cup Test was played at the Sydney Football Stadium in front of a packed crowd of 41,917.
Tries from Jason Little and Phil Kearns and four kicks from fly-half David Knox had put Australia in control of the game with a four-point lead at three-quarter time.
With four minutes left on the clock, the Wallabies 20-16 advantage looked likely to be stolen as All Black Jeff Wilson beat two defenders and headed for the try-line.
It was a heart-sinking moment as the determined winger came within metres of destroying Australia’s hopes for the Bledisloe win. Just before Wilson dived for the corner half-back George Gregan swooped in from the left, knocking the ball from his hands, denying the Kiwis of a Bledisloe robbing.
Known as “that tackle”, the priceless time-saving manoeuvre recaptured the mighty Bledisloe trophy for Australia and catapulted the Aussie scrumhalf onto the international Rugby stage.
It was the last match the Cup was decided by just one game with the advent of professional Rugby in 1996.
Take a look back at “that tackle” during the 1994 Bledisloe Cup on ARUTV.
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Timeless pieces from this classic Bledisloe game in 1994 will be on display at the Magic of Bledisloe, a free exhibition at the Museum of Sydney opening on Friday 9 August.
The Bledisloe Cup trophy itself will be at the Museum of Sydney on Friday 9 August when some of the games’ stars open this year's Bledisloe Cup Festival.
The Magic of Bledisloe exhibition - Museum of Sydney
Date: Friday 9 – Sunday 18 August
Time: Open daily 9.30am - 5pm
Cost: Entry to the display is free
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