Robbie Deans happy with Australia display

Australia coach Robbie Deans has praised his players despite their defeat to the British & Irish Lions in the first Test in Brisbane.

The Wallabies were edged out 23-21 on Saturday and went behind in the three-match series.

"I'm proud of the effort," Deans is quoted as saying by Sky Sports News. "It was a courageous performance to stack up alongside any.

"To give themselves a chance of winning the game was a good effort, but obviously we didn't so now we go to Melbourne having to win."

The second Test between the two sides takes place at the Etihad Stadium in Melbourne on June 29.