Fraser McReight reveals what Wallabies said at 22-nil down

Flanker Fraser McReight has revealed how calm leadership from captain Harry Wilson and clear messaging from head coach Joe Schmidt inspired the Wallabies’ stunning comeback against the Springboks at Ellis Park.

Australia were staring at a heavy defeat when they trailed 22-0 inside the opening quarter, but they clawed their way back to 22-5 before half-time and went on to secure a famous 38-22 victory.

Joseph Suaalii’s intercept try, two scores from skipper Harry Wilson, and long-range efforts from Max Jorgensen and Tom Wright spearheaded the comeback, with James O’Connor pulling strings in midfield.

The victory was Australia’s first in Johannesburg since 1963, though it came at a cost with serious injuries to Wilson and winger Dylan Pietsch.

McReight, who had an excellent game over the ball, revealed what was said under the sticks at 22-nil down and back in the sheds at the break.

“I think it was just about stepping into contact. Like Joe said, the Boks were outstanding when they had a bit of flow. We were lucky in that last 20 seconds of the first half to get the ball back, so it went to 22-5. Then we came into the sheds, got a great message from Joe and from Laurie, and it was honestly just about stepping up, getting into contact and winning the collisions. I think the group responded really well,” McReight said.

“I thought Harry Wilson was outstanding. In the first two minutes he took the gainline on as captain and led from the front.”

The Reds openside admitted the first half was difficult but said the team drew confidence from their leaders and from sticking to Schmidt’s plan.

“It was pretty special. To be 22-5 at half-time, with some dominant contacts going against us, it was tricky out there. But we responded really well to our leaders bringing us together, and we just backed our game plan. We came in at half-time, had a great plan, and we were able to produce some great footy in that second half.

“Joe’s been big on the fundamentals and on not dying on our feet. We want to go out there and play an attacking style of football, and that’s what we did right up until the 80th minute. Rabs putting in that kick to get a 50:22 just shows his outstanding rugby IQ. I thought it was a great game from everyone.”

McReight’s words chimed with what was coming out of the Boks’ camp after the loss.

South Africa head coach Rassie Erasmus also admitted that the Wallabies’ physicality had caused problems the Boks never managed to solve. “I don’t think they tactically outsmarted us, but they physically dominated us. The interesting thing is that the longer the game went on, they were supposed to struggle, but it just shows what Wallaby coach Joe Schmidt is building there.”