In wet and slippery conditions, Australia opened the scoring through Brisbane Broncos centre Kotoni Staggs in the ninth minute, with Walker converting the try for his first international points. Fiji hit back through Semi Valemei in the 19th minute and surged ahead when Taane Milne scored in the 31st minute, punishing the heavily-favoured home side.
The Kangaroos hit back just before half-time when Tedesco broke through the line and linked up with his Roosters teammate Walker, who scored his first Test try. 'He’s had a big year, he debuted for the Maroons and now the Kangaroos. He’s just excited to get out there,' Tedesco said of the debutant.
With around 35,000 spectators expected at Suncorp Stadium, the bookmakers had written off Fiji, installing the Kangaroos as 42-point favourites and pricing the Fijians as $50 outsiders. Despite early errors, Fiji capitalised on their opportunities to stay within striking distance. The half-time score stood at Australia 12, Fiji 10, setting up a tense second half.