The Wallabies downed the All Blacks 25-20 to claim their first Tri-Nations crown in 10 years at Suncorp Stadium yesterday.

Australia gave their hopes of a third World Cup success in New Zealand next month a major boost, with a spirited three-tries-to-two victory after leading 20-3 at half-time.

The Wallabies have not lifted the southern hemisphere crown since John Eales’s team won in 2001.

The Australians showed great resolve in a pulsating second half as the world number one ranked All Blacks stormed back to draw level with 20 minutes left.

But the Wallabies, led by lock James Horwill for the first time, fought back and claimed victory with a 61st-minute try by full-back Kurtley Beale.

The Wallabies lost their chance to win this year’s Bledisloe Cup when holders New Zealand comprehensively beat them 30-14 in Auckland three weeks ago.

But this was Australia’s second win over the All Blacks in their last three meetings after they defeated Graham Henry’s team 26-24 in Hong Kong last October.

It was also the Wallabies’ first victory over the All Blacks in Brisbane for 19 years.

New Zealand drew level on 59 minutes when Ma’a Nonu was involved twice before scoring off Smith’s pass.

But the Wallabies hit back minutes later when Will Genia dummied into the clear and combined with winger Digby Ioane for Beale to score in the left corner to retrieve the lead at 25-20.

Quade Cooper had the chance to put the Wallabies eight points clear in the match but missed a penalty attempt with eight minutes left.

World Cup warm-up match
Ireland vs England 9-20 (HT: 9-13).