Wallabies centre Reece Hodge has admitted to being frustrated with his side’s inconsistency with ball in hand, despite possessing quality backs.
It is likely that Kurtley Beale and Matt Toomua will again line up in the 10 and 12 shirts against South Africa, with Hodge outside them at 13.
Last time out against Argentina the Wallabies were 23-19 losers as their attack failed to fire on the Gold Coast, which has ultimately cost them any chance of winning the Rugby Championship and left Hodge desperate for an improvement in form when they run out in Port Elizabeth.
“It’s frustrating, that’s the word that sums it up,” Hodge told Rugby Australia’s official website.
“We all know what we can produce on our day but consistent is what’s killing us at the moment, both within the game and game-to-game.
“We are capable of some brilliance and ultimately our goal is to produce that.
“We haven’t done that (for 80 minutes) this season but it’s an opportunity to show what we’re really capable of.”
Beale and Toomua recently took over the 10-12 axis with Bernard Foley providing impact off the bench, something Hodge feels is working well.
“(They are) three world class players… a lot of their game is based on how well they communicate with the team and how well they direct the team around the paddock,” the centre said.
“(Beale and Toomua) are starting to build a good combination there.
“I’d say it’s a rotating combination between the three and they all bring a hell of a lot to the squad.
“It’s exciting to think of the possibilities in terms of the opportunities they can create for us as an outside back group.
“It’s up to us to finish it off.”