The and entered their season opener with very different plans for handling the long trip to Australia. San Francisco arrived in Melbourne more than a week before kickoff, while Los Angeles landed roughly a day before the game.
The matchup at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was the first regular-season game in Australia. It also brought added attention to the Rams’ decision to limit their time away from home, with questions raised about whether the late arrival could affect their preparation.
San Francisco took control of the game and left Melbourne with a 27-7 victory. The win gave the 49ers an early statement result in the NFC West and brought a quick response from the team’s social media account after the final whistle.
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49ers respond to Rams after Australia win
The post appeared to reference a Rams celebration from the second quarter. Rams safety Quentin Lake intercepted a pass from Brock Purdy and joined teammates in a sleeping celebration after the turnover.
Purdy and the 49ers recovered after the interception, while Los Angeles was unable to build on the momentum. San Francisco then pulled away in the second half to secure the decisive win.
The online exchange added another moment to a rivalry that already carried extra interest because of the historic setting in Melbourne.
Rams’ Australia travel plan faced questions before 49ers game
The Rams arrived in Australia about 28 hours before kickoff after completing preparations in California. Their approach was designed to limit the effects of adjusting to the time difference before returning home shortly after the game.The 49ers took the opposite route, arriving early to adapt to Melbourne time and practice locally before the opener.
San Francisco’s win does not establish the impact of either travel plan, but the contrast between the teams’ schedules was a major storyline before kickoff.
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