Wales v Australia

A capacity crowd of 74,000 fans packed into the Millennium Stadium for the first autumn international of the season. The passion from both sets of supporters was a sight to behold, the red of Wales mixed beautifully with the bright yellow of Australia under glorious overhead conditions.

2.25pm. Anthem-time and the lovely Katherine Jenkins did not disappoint with a heart-warming version of “Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau”. A great moment which certainly left the hairs on the back of my neck standing.

The atmosphere was brilliant throughout with no trouble or segregation lines on the terraces to be seen. What a contrast to football! My mate and I had a proud old Welsh couple from the Valleys to the left and an Australian couple from Brisbane, over for the tour to the right. With the score-line fluctuating, the banter and beers flowed and an enjoyable day out was had by all.

The rugby itself saw Australia capitalise early doors on a slow Welsh start. Captain and fly-half Stephen Jones’ knee injury saw Osprey’s James Hook take to the field. Here, an international player was born as he kicked 13 points and easily won the man of the match award.

Strangely, it was the first time I have ever seen a live rugby match finish in a draw. By all accounts, the result was fair albeit, when debatable decision-maker Steve Walsh from New Zealand blew the final whistle, it felt like such an anti-climax!

To see the match report: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_union/6112812.stm