Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt hailed his improving side's "grit and resilience" Saturday after they upset the British and Irish Lions to end the three-match series on a high.
Despite the odds being stacked against them, Australia dug deep in a drenched and lightning-hit Sydney, casting aside their disappointment at losing the second Test in Melbourne 29-26.
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They came out of the blocks firing with an early try to lead 8-0 and kept up the pressure, never letting the weary Lions get into their attacking groove for a deserved 22-12 win.
After a passive performance in the first Test in Brisbane, Schmidt's young side went up a level in Melbourne and again in Sydney, auguring well for the future.
"I'm just relieved and incredibly proud," said Schmidt, who was installed to restore Australia's reputation after a horror 2023 World Cup under Eddie Jones.
"We worked really hard to build that 8-0 lead. Coming off after the lightning could've destabilised things, so to stay focused and defend well was a real testament to the players' character.
"It wasn't pretty," he added.
"It was all about grit and resilience. I really admired the way the players came through, they did just enough to get the job done."
Their performance was all the more encouraging given they were missing flanker Rob Valetini, prop Allan Alaalatoa, hooker David Porecki and wing Harry Potter -- all first-choice picks.
Meanwhile, British and Irish Lions coach Andy Farrell said his weary side had been a "dream to work with" and should be proud of their achievements despite the defeat.
"I know we're disappointed but we should be unbelievably proud of what we achieved as a group," Farrell said.
"Lions tours are tough and to do what we've done last week and put the series in the bag, upon reflection after tonight, I'm sure we'll be super proud of the achievements.
"How we got the job done in that type of theatre will live with us forever.
"These lads have been an absolute dream to work with."
