Wallabies knew what was coming at Eden Park, but were powerless to stop it

October 11, 2026 — 1:38pm

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The Wallabies were taken to the hurt locker by the All Blacks on Saturday, and the methodology used against them would have been all-too-familiar.

Former Wallabies coach Dave Rennie’s imprint was all over the All Blacks’ performance, so the Wallabies knew what was coming and will feel a little disappointed at how they failed to stop it. The high ball was an issue, but it’s an issue for everyone these days, and the Wallabies’ main area of improvement before the rematch in Sydney on Saturday will be to put some pressure on the ball carrier.

Even in the first half, players such as All Blacks No.8 Wallace Sititi were happily taking the space offered to him by the Wallabies. The All Blacks had two or three metres to wind up before they hit the advantage line and it was a factor that took a massive toll as the Test wore on.

Some Wallabies jackallers will feel they didn’t get much protection from the officials when the All........

© The Age