Australian Schools have fallen short against New Zealand Schools Barbarians in wet conditions in Auckland.

The home side scored three tries to two and added three penalty goals to seal a 28-17 victory.

Australia opened the scoring early in the match through prop Lloyd Gorman who barged over from close range. Scrumhalf Ryan Lonergan converted the try, but New Zealand quickly responded with a penalty goal to reduce the lead to 7-3.

The Barbarians dominated possession and territory but Australia’s defence held strong until scrumhalf Folau Fakatava found a small gap and capatalised to score his sides first try.

Lonergan added a penalty goal to level the scores at 10-10, but from there New Zealand took control in the wet and dominated the remainder of the first half.

After causing a turnover from a well-placed box kick, the Barbarians backs combined and flyhalf Lincoln McClutchie scored to claim a 17-10 lead.

New Zealand then retained possession from the kick-off, allowing McClutchie to kick ahead for his winger Danny Toala who took possession and scored to give the home side a 22-10 lead at the break.

Australia started the second half brilliantly as winger Will Eadie moved possession deep inside the Barbarians half. The Kiwis were able to cause a turnover and looked to run the ball out of danger but Australia’s defence was strong and centre Hunter Paisami scooped up a loose pass to score. Issac Lucas converted the try to reduce the deficit to just five points.

But that was as close at the Australians would get. The New Zealand lineout dominated in the second half, limiting the visitor’s opportunities.

A superior kicking game allowed the Barbarians to control proceedings before the home side kicked two further penalty goals to secure an 11-point victory.

Australia must now regroup before facing New Zealand Schools on Saturday afternoon in Auckland. New Zealand Schools defeated Fiji Schools 45-19 in their opening match.