A few things I got from the game, watching on replay:
1, There is definitely more of an emphasis on support play, offloading and players keeping themselves available under Cheika. This is a good thing. It wasn't always well executed, but the intent was clearly there to expand on the up tempo game plan that we've seen from Link onwards.
2, Carter was a lot more prominent in the loose and like the commentators I think he's been given instructions to play a bit wider and carry the ball up more. I thought he was pretty solid.
3, McMahon has a huge future if he continues to play like that. He's got exactly the kind of athleticism and mongrel that Cheika would be looking for (Michael had a bit of that himself as a player too, it must be said). I think he will combine well with Hooper at some point in the tour.
4, We were far too scrappy for long periods and didn't treasure the ball enough. Good breakdown teams like Wales will crucify us unless we tighten that up.
5, Phipps and Foley are clearly the preferred halves combination for now. Genia and Cooper gradually built into the game, but that quick service and putting the ball out in front is what will win us games.
6, Our tight play improved considerably when Slipper and Kepu came on. If Slipper isn't now one of the premier props in the world I'll eat my hat.
7, Hooper is clearly the first choice openside now. I thought Hodgo had a pretty good game and had his head in the tough stuff, but Hooper provides an extra dimension that makes him even more valuable.
8, It's going to be a ding dong battle for the 12 jersey. To'omua had a storming game I thought and really laid the smackdown on D, but Lilo didn't drop off the intensity when he came on either. The midfield combo of Foley, To'omua/Lilo and TK is going to cause some real headaches for opposition coaches.