The pressure is on for former Leinster coach Michael Cheika, as calls for his sacking begin to increase in the Australian media.
New Zealand secured a 38-13 over Australia last week to compound a disappointing run of form for the Wallabies and in the aftermath, ESPN's Greg Growden was scathing in his criticism.
Cheika must pay the price for a team whose appalling skill level makes a mockery of the professional footballer tag, and arrogant, holier-than-thou attitude does not warrant any respect from those sick and tired of a pedestrian outfit who constantly makes fools of themselves in the big games.
Growden went on to claim Ireland's head coach is a suitable replacement: "They must try to lure Joe Schmidt from Ireland."
Cheika oversaw Australia's June test defeat to Ireland and the prevailing negativity has persisted since then. Despite his renowned pedigree within the game and a 2015 World Cup final, the continued decline has many frustrated.
The 2019 World Cup is just a year away and Australia have a potentially tricky pool with Wales, Fiji, Georgia and Uruguay. However, speaking to the Canberra Times the 51-year-old was willing to accept improvement is neccessary.
We’ve had to take a lot of bullets across this time of building a bit more depth. I think we are getting that now. (We need) more focus, more concentration, deliver on the nights and go from there. I’m not saying we don’t merit that type of response, I’m certainly not thinking we don’t merit a negative response – of course we do.
But you’ve always got to understand that consistency of performance is built over a period of time with experience, and that’s what we’re building to. If you are looking for an answer; it’s about playing at our best for more consistent periods.
Wallabies hooker Tatafu Polota-Nau has also come out in support of his coach, declaring him "the best man for the job."
Australia play New Zealand again this Saturday at Eden Park, where a win would go some way toward alleviating the concerns.
