The upcoming fixtures for the Wallabies are a gauntlet, with matches against rugby powerhouses like South Africa, New Zealand, and then a slew of Nations Championship games. This sequence will test the team's mettle, as coaches and players alike know that the challenges upcoming are sizable.
One positive takeaway is the offensive prowess shown by the Wallabies this year, significantly building from the torch passed on by Joe Schmidt. With 39 tries in seven games, the team's offensive capability is clear. "We're putting more points on the board and still maintaining our defensive standards," Kiss noted.
"We've got to keep building on our strong points and iron out the inconsistencies that have crept into some of our games."
However, some inconsistencies remain, like the shaky performance in Mendoza that Kiss refers to disparagingly as a 'bludger'. These games show a side of Australia that could undermine their ambitions if not addressed. The tendency toward critical mishaps in clutch moments was evident, with lost possessions and poorly executed plays.
Maintaining possession has been pivotal in Australia's most dominant performances. When the Wallabies manage to control the game's tempo and keep the ball, they apply relentless pressure on the opposition, and the points follow. This approach has defined their strategy in winning games this season.
Equally significant has been their conversion rate in the opposition's 22, indicating a lethal efficiency that has seen an average game yield 36 points. This is an improvement that Kiss is keen to emphasize, reflecting a clinical edge that the Wallabies have developed.
Bench management has surfaced as a tactical challenge for Kiss. The recent game saw unexpected shifts due to injuries, leading to players playing out of their usual positions. This mismanagement contributed to the team's disjointed play in critical moments.
The injury to Gordon requiring a re-shuffle was particularly disruptive, causing Kiss to reflect on his bench strategy. "We need to think critically about our bench roles and ensure we're preparing for all scenarios," he observed.
Despite these hurdles, the lessons from the Argentina series are invaluable as the Wallabies gear up for a demanding schedule. Kiss is armed with insights that, if addressed, could see Australia become formidable contenders on the world stage.
As the Wallabies continue refining their gameplay, the upcoming matches will prove whether the lessons from the Argentina tour have truly been learned and integrated into their strategic framework.
