Quest for southern glory

Rod Macqueen needs to prevent a World Cup hangover

For all their World-Cup winning exploits, Australia have yet to perform when it matters in the Tri-Nations.

In the four-year history of the competition the Wallabies have failed to lift the trophy, but this season look to have all the ingredients to make a concerted push for the only piece of international silverware to elude them.

If their lack of success was enough of a motivational factor then it is further heightened by the fact that two of their most consistent, and loyal servants are hanging up their international boots at the end of the tournament.

David Wilson and Tim Horan will see out their careers at English clubs, Harlequins and Saracens respectively, and Rod Macqueen's side will be keen to give them the perfect send off.

Tim Horan hopes to bow out in style

They claimed the William Webb Ellis trophy without having to face the All Blacks - a final that most of the world's rugby public wanted - but must do so if they want they Tri-Nations title.

They are fully aware that the All Blacks, and South Africa, will test their grasp on their tag as the world's best side but early season form points towards another strong season for the men in the gold jerseys.

They disposed of Argentina in their first Test since their triumph at the Millennium Stadium last November but had more trouble against the Pumas in the second clash where the South American pack pushed them around the park.

Top gear

Up against South Africa in the Mandela Cup their errors were capitalised on by the Springbok backs and they took a long time to find top gear.

But once the chain clicked into the cog they were away and South Africa could only chase their shadows.

Macqueen's tactics of packing a team with a defensive wall that needed a Sherman tank to breach it won him the World Cup, but the one-dimensional play won few fans.

The signs are there this season that they are more willing to utilise the attacking potency the team contains in the shape of Stephen Larkham, Chris Latham and Joe Roff but they will seek to gain ascendancy before chancing their arm.

Their goals are simple - build on the success of last year, retain their hold on the Bledisloe Cup (the trophy for trans-Tasman supremacy), send off their ageing stars in style and finally win a Test on South African soil.

But more importantly, they need to confront the challenge of living up to their standing as the world's best and retain their place at the pinnacle of the sport.