Haven't had a chance to reflect on the game since Saturday night. Was a great experience to watch live and the game really lived up to the hype in my book. Shame about the missed kick at the end but thems the breaks.
Thought the Wallabies defence was outstanding as was the line-out Watching the game live (and drunk) it was very easy to forget that the Wallabies lost three players to injury, given how well they dealt with it and I think that's a credit to the team, I'm sure watching at home the commentators were constantly reminded of the injury count.
I was happy with the performance of all of the players, but I think there were some clear indications as that there were some tactical/personnel blunders by Deans.
1) O'Connor was no good at flyhalf, and clearly looked more dangerous towards the end of the game when he was able to play a bit wider. We looked more dangerous with Beale stepping in the 5/8.
2) Having Barnes at the back was a massive error. His kicking wasn't good enough.
3) I saw some people having a go at Palu on this board but from where I was sitting he got through a mountain of work. Perhaps wasn't at his best, but did enough to retain his spot in my view.
I'd keep the same starting forward pack for the next, save for perhaps bringing Kepu/Slipper in for Alexander. I'd bring MMM and Smith onto the bench in place of Simmons and Gill (nothing wrong with those two players but I think MMM and Smith offer more impact).
Backline I'd go with would be:
10. Beale
11. O'Connor
12. Lilo
13. Horne
14. Folau
15. Mogg
Reserves: Taps and Cummins
I think we can win the next test provided Deans names someone other than JOC (James O'Connor) at 10.
Although Pulver has said he will honour Deans' contract until the end of the season...
