24 Jun 2013

Coach says Beale will rebound for second test

6:08 am on 24 June 2013

The Wallabies coach Robbie Deans has backed Kurtley Beale to rebound from his goal-kicking disappointment to help Australia level their Test series against the British and Irish Lions in Melbourne this weekend.

Beale had the opportunity to win the opening Test but missed two late penalty kicks in their 23-21 loss in Brisbane, slipping as he struck his last-minute attempt.

Beale was making his return to test rugby after being suspended and undergoing treatment last month for a drinking problem.

Deans was glowing in his praise for Beale, who came off the bench in the first half to replace the injured fullback Berrick Barnes.

Injuries will force significant changes to the Wallabies line-up for the second test with four backs - Barnes, Pat McCabe, Adam Ashley-Cooper, and Digby Ioane in doubt.

All four were sent for scans after the game with their prospects to be determined in the near future.