Wallabies to make changes in side before facing Wales for third position match
The Wallabies squad could see some changes to their side for the upcoming third position match against Wales on October 21. The Aussies received a defeat while playing against the hosts All Blacks in the second semi-final of Rugby World Cup 2011 on Sunday,
October 16 and ended their dreams of lifting the Webb Ellis Trophy. The Wallabies side played an underdog’s game in a much anticipated match and handed over an easy victory to their rivals. Their head coach, Robbie Deans, told the media on Monday that they
could feature some changes in their line ups to face the motivated Welsh side.
Wales’ side has emerged as a good unit in the ongoing world showpiece and have secured remarkable victories in the tournament. They have been dealt just two defeats including the semi-final debacle against France with slight margins of one point on both
occasions. They lost their pool match to defending champs Springboks by 17-16 whereas they fell just short to the French side by 9-8 in their last play-off.
Meanwhile, Wallabies have remained unimpressive in the whole event as they earlier surrendered to Ireland in the group matches and later on disappointed their supporters while losing to the All Blacks.
Indicating the expected changes in his squad, Wallabies coach told the media that some changes are likely to be made in the back bunches after a disappointing performance against All Blacks. He added that, “It's very likely that there will be changes, quite
simply off the back of the burden that the core group has had and there are some pretty battered bodies. (Prop) Sekope Kepu was down at the hospital this morning getting checked out with his eye, so we'll know more shortly, but the likelihood is that out of
necessity there will be some changes.”
The coach applauded his side for their overall performance in the tournament and said that, “They are fantastic in the way they've taken to their work and the way they are coming to understand the responsibility and the privilege that they have and I think
they've shown that.”
Robbie Deans is a highly trusted coach for the Wallabies and was handed over another two-year deal with the side before the start of the RWC.
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