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If anyone ever thought this was a dead rubber, the television coverage of Robbie Deans and assistants standing arm-in-arm in the box, singing the Australian national anthem dispelled that.
The result was always going to be less important than the perceived effort, individually and collectively, from the Wallabies.
That the Wallabies came to play was a welcome realisation. The All Blacks always come to play. While this article is primarily about the Wallabies, credit again goes to the All Blacks for both winning and closing out the game when that was required. The Wallabies are only able to compete with the All Blacks, but not beat them.
Horwill, Moore and Palu returned to form with some mongrel, physical intimidation, committed play, and work-rate. Pocock had his best game in a Wallabies jersey. Alexander and Robinson were everywhere, and, in the process, with Woodcock, redefining the prop’s contribution to games.
Chisholm was okay. Elsom led from the front. Genia had his best game, albeit in patches and with some wayward passes. Giteau played well, but further confirmed that he is unable to get a backline to play like a backline, particularly from a set piece. The 5/8 solo run at a set defensive line is not a backline play.
Adam Ashley-Cooper, Hynes and Ioane were very involved and produced very good rugby. Cross and O’Connor were good in space, and Deans was clever in having O’Connor at 12 for much of the second half.
But, I hear you saying, the Wallabies lost by 13 points after leading at half-time by three points.
Yes, but the Wallabies are like a recovering alcoholic. Small steps count for much. Attitude and effort is very important. The rugby family has been through a lot. They need some reassurance. That came tonight.
But the lineout went missing; there were several costly turnovers in contact, they continued with dumb, pressure releasing mistakes, and there is still nothing from the backs that vaguely resembles back play.
Maintaining this intensity and improving tonight’s performance will see them break their losing streak. And that may be enough for this already severely weakened team.
Alternatively, with their backs to the wall, they may discover the inner-strength and resolve that transforms them into a tough, committed force that creates the next Wallabies dynasty.
I would like coach Deans to show more belief in his bench. They are either good enough to be selected on the bench, and hence get significant game time, or they are not. If the latter is the case, don’t select them at all.
It may be that Wallabies fans will look back at this game as the turning point for the team. Next week will tell us more about tonight’s game; how much was rust and how much was just deep seated inadequacy and lack of self-belief.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.