There has been plenty of questions thrown around about the Wallabies’ recent run of success over the Springboks.
However, Wallabies assistant coach Scott Wisemantel believes there’s a different pattern in their own play, not the opposition, that must be addressed if they wish to take the next step on Satuday in Sydney.
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Dave Rennie is set to name an unchanged starting line-up, the first time a Wallabies coach will do so since Michael Cheika in 2018.
It comes after a 25-17 win against the Springboks in Adelaide, extending their unbeaten streak to eight games
This has led to a bevy of questions thrown at both sides trying to figure out why this has been the case when the South Africans have faired considerably better against the likes of the All Blacks and Argentina
As Wisemantel points out, the strong performances against the world champions have a key thing in common.
“Probably because we’ve come off bad losses. That’s it,” Wisemantel put bluntly to reporters.
“Last year in Perth we had our pants pulled down, Argentina (in San Juan) same deal. The timing if you are a Boks supporter isn’t great, I don’t think it’s any reflection on them at all.”
The Wallabies’ lack of execution for the full 80 minutes cost them a bonus point and top spot in the Rugby Championship as Kwagga Smith crossed for a double in the final six minutes.
They found themselves guilty of similar issues against England in the first Test of 2022, with Wisemantel and the coaching staff eager to start putting teams away.
“It does, you're filthy that you miss that point, we’re livid,” he admits on the late tries.
“We’ve disappointed with that last 8-10 minutes and we’re had chances there. Even when it was three tries to one, we had a chance off a set-piece to do something.
“We’ve got to be a little more cut-throat and ruthless so it’s definitely something we’ve spoken about and worked on.”
The improved handling and playmaking from 1-15 under Rennie and Wisemantel were clear to see in the win.
Tighthead Allan Alaalatoa’s quick hands put Fraser McReight into space, with skipper James Slipper refusing to be undone with his long ball to Noah Lolesio for McReight’s second.
“I think it’s indicative of the whole system in Australian Rugby at the moment,” Wisemantel suggests on the growth of their skills.
“The states have worked really hard on the skill and fitness levels. Whilst we’ve worked really hard on it, I don’t think we can take all the credit for it and commend the Super Rugby clubs for their programs and how we have integrated together.
“During the season, we’re sharing ideas and we’re all growing. I go to the states and every time I walk away I learn something. It’s a double-edge sword and the players skill level has improved as you can see against the results against Kiwi teams but from the coaching point of view, we’re always walking away a little bit wiser after talking with state coaches.”
