'We need wins': Wallabies desperate to end tour on high after close defeats

Wed, Nov 23, 2022, 4:06 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
The Wallabies faced off against the no.1 ranked Ireland side in Dublin.

The Wallabies are hungry to end their season on a high as they prepare to face an equally-desperate Wales in Cardiff.

Last week's 13-10 defeat to world number one Ireland was the third straight defeat by three points or less for Dave Rennie's men following losses to Italy and France.

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It leaves the wounded Wallabies frustrated yet confident they are still on the right path as they conclude a tiring 2022 campaign.

“I think we need wins,” back-rower Jed Holloway told reporters after an elongated pause when asked about the tour.

“We’re so close so that’s what driving the boys to finish off the tour the way we want to. It’s been well documented the disappointments from the French weekend, obviously Italy and the weekend but we know as a group we’re right there and we’re taking the right steps to put in a good performance.

“Really striving for that is what driving and motivating us for this week.

“Any win at this level is super important but it would mean a huge amount to the group and coaches, all the staff here. We know the work we’ve been putting in and we’re genuinely trying to tick every single box to get that result

“It’s hard to describe what it would mean because it would be that massive to get a result on the weekend. We know we’ll be put in the best position by the coaching staff, it’s up to us as players to go deliver that whatever team we roll out."

Keeping positive remains key despite a brutal injury toll, with half a dozen players already on their way back to Australia.

“I wouldn’t go and say we’re flat because we’re 100% determined to finish off the year and tour in style,” he believes.

“It’s not like we’re defeated and keen to get home, boys are chewing at the bit to get out there and get a result.

“It’s just finding those moments when to switch off and not think about Rugby so when you are on the training paddock or in the meetings, you are 100% on.

“That’s important after a long season because if you are constantly thinking about Rugby, you’ll burn out. Taking those opportunities and really being in the moment is super important.”

Holloway remains wary of the hosts, with the clash a key preview ahead of next year's World Cup.

Both sides will face off in Lyon on September 24, likely to decide Pool C, with the Welsh coming off a shock defeat to fellow pool member Georgia 13-12 last week.

“We know Wales lost to Georgia last week so they’ll want to make amends for that," he added.

"We’re going to need to be ready and I’m looking forward to it and can’t wait to get out there.”

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