James Slipper adds ominous caveat after 'special' win at Ellis Park

Veteran Wallaby James Slipper has hailed his side’s stunning comeback against the Springboks at Ellis Park as one of the proudest moments of his career.

However, the loosehead has added a major ‘but’ to the equation.

The Aussies hadn’t won at the famous Johannesburg venue in 62 years but somehow overturned a 22-0 deficit inside the first 20 minutes to run in six tries and stun the world champions on their home turf.

It was also their first win at altitude in South Africa since 2010 and ended a 14-year losing streak on Rainbow Nation soil.

“It’s right up there [the win],” Slipper told SuperSport at the final whistle. “It’s been 60-odd years since the Wallabies have had success here in Joburg, so it’s a really proud moment for our group.

“We’ve worked hard, we’ve got a bit of confidence about ourselves, but it’s just the start of something really special. We want to keep building, but it’s definitely up there,” Slipper said.

The Wallabies were left reeling after conceding three early tries. Yet instead of playing dead, Joe Schmidt’s side’s response was emphatic.

The 36-year-old praised the doggedness of his teammates and also the impact of his replacements in turning the tide.

“I’d say it was a bit of a slow start from us, but also a really fast start from the Boks. We knew they were going to come out hard and fast, and they did. Credit to our boys, though, we really stuck in there. I thought our bench in the second half came on and really added value. It was a really good squad effort tonight and something we’ll be very proud of.”

While the result would give Australia a major confidence boost, ‘Slips’ admitted the challenge will be tougher again in Cape Town.

“It’s such a special moment. We’ve already had a big year playing against the Lions, and to come here to Johannesburg and go up against the world champions, then come away with a result in front of this sort of crowd… it’s really special for our group.

The result handed Australia a maximum five points from their Rugby Championship opener and delivered one of the most seismic upsets of the professional era.

“We’ll gain a lot of confidence from that. But one thing we know is we’ve got to play the Boks again next week, so it’s going to be another tough game, and something we’ll prepare hard for.”