After a break of five years, the Tri-Nations returned to the calendar in 2004 with a new format, as the three teams played each other twice.

The opening game was held in Auckland between New Zealand and Australia, before both teams decamped to England for the rest of the competition.

The opening encounter proved indecisive, with Australia taking an early lead, before New Zealand fought back, grabbing an equalising try through Francis Meli in the second half to leave the scores tied at 16-16.

The sides met again the following week, this time at Loftus Road in London, and it was Australia who produced a dominant performance, running in five tries to waltz home 32-12.

The improving Great Britain side met the Australians next, but their hearts were broken by a narrow defeat once more against the old enemy, as Luke Rooney touched for the second time late on to steal a 12-8 win for the Kangaroos.

Great Britain gained consolation against New Zealand in the following game, winning 24-12, and met Australia with revenge on their mind at Wigan's JJB Stadium. This time they were spectacularly successful, scoring four tires to put the Aussies away 24-12.

A second victory over New Zealand followed in the dead rubber, before the Lions met the Kangaroos again in the final as marginal favourites.

It was to be disappointment again for the British fans, though, as Australia destroyed their hopes in a blazing display of attacking rugby to open up a 38-0 lead by half-time, having run in six tries, including braces for Anthony Minichello and Willie Tonga.

A further touchdown from Willie Mason confirmed Australia as champions again and the 44-4 scoreline consigned Great Britain to their heaviest-ever defeat on home soil.