Rugby Tri Nations Finals 1999

The inaugural Tri-Nations event took place in Australia and New Zealand in 1999, effectively serving as preparation for the 2000 World Cup the following year, and proved a chastening experience for Great Britain.

The Lions only marginally defeated Queensland Cup side Burleigh Bears in a warm-up match, pointing to their lack of competitiveness and went home empty-handed after two defeats.

The teams were to play each other once before a final, with the opening match featuring the two hosts, and New Zealand sparked a shock, defeating the Aussies 24-22. The Kiwis raced ahead in the first half before Australia stormed back, but Mat Rogers' failure to convert Brad Fittler's try earlier in the game proved crucial.

In the second game Great Britain were swept aside in Brisbane, conceding seven tries to a rampant Australia, including two from full-back Darren Lockyer.

Needing to beat New Zealand to have any chance of making the final game, Great Britain were found wanting again, as this time the Kiwis demolished them with cousins Nigel Vagana (2) and Joe touching down in a 26-4 success.

That result set up a meeting between the Trans-Tasman rivals in the final, but this time the Australian defence were on top, with Mat Rogers touching down twice, as the Kangaroos edged home to a 22-20 victory.