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Australia has registered their first win of the 2016 international season with a 23-17 victory against South Africa at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane last night.
This result will provide some much needed respite for the Wallabies and coach Michael Cheika after heavy criticism post the Bledisloe Tests. The microscope will remain on the Springboks and further pressure will mount.
They now head to Christchurch with a rampant All Black side awaiting them.
Here are my talking points from the match.
Wallaby defence
While one can lament over the Springbok attack which was at times disjointed and directionless, the Wallaby defence was vastly improved from previous outings. Aggressive and urgent, Michael Hooper in particular getting through a mountain of work.
This led to a better breakdown performance as well, securing nine turnovers in the process and is an important confidence boost for the remainder of the season.
Wallaby set piece
Another area which saw dramatic improvements with a dominant scrum and a more secure lineout with more variations employed, losing only one yesterday through poor handling.
Still unable to exert any real pressure on the opposition throw but at least looking secure on their own throw. What has happened to the Springbok scrum? What was once considered an area of strength looks well below par.
Springbok attack
On attack the Springboks looked directionless and lacked any real endeavour with ball in hand. Several unforced errors and poor passing robbed them of gaining any momentum and possession was invariably kicked away.
There is plenty of speed and skill in this side however unlocking it into a cohesive force is proving challenging. Elton Jantjes appears to be struggling at first five and perhaps consideration needs to be made around the ten jersey.
The last ten minutes
A frustrating period from both sides permeated with poor kicking and perhaps a sign of the pressure to secure a win with a nervy ending not producing the climax one might expect from a six-point ball game.
Certainly an area both sides will look at and question where was their direction and leadership during this critical period?
All in all, an improved all round performance from Australia and a much needed win heading into next week’s encounter with a strong Argentinian side. A bleaker outlook awaits the Springboks, with a trip to Christchurch up next.
There is little to suggest they can mount a reasonable challenge against an in-form All Black side.
These are some of my talking points from last night’s match, what were your takeaways from the Test?
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.