There was early-season optimism under new coach Joe Schmidt as the Wallabies whitewashed Wales and beat Georgia in a 3-0 start to the season in July.
But the 67-27 humiliation by Los Pumas in the Rugby Championship has brought back the gloom that followed the Wallabies' groupstage exit in the 2023 World Cup in France. It was the most points conceded by Australia and their second-worst losing margin ever.
Local media declared the Santa Fe shocker one of the "darkest days" in Australian rugby and a disaster for New Zealander Schmidt, whose appointment had been well received in the wake of Eddie Jones' brief and chaotic tenure.
It came as a massive reality check following the 20-19 win over the Pumas in driving rain at La Plata.
This story is from the September 10, 2024 edition of The Straits Times.
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This story is from the September 10, 2024 edition of The Straits Times.
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