Australia coach Robbie Deans believes his troops are primed to win their first Tri-Nations series since 2001.
Wallabies coach backing his boys to maintain their momentum
Australia coach Robbie Deans believes his troops are primed and ready to win their first Tri-Nations series since 2001.
The Wallabies chalked up their fourth successive triumph this year with a resounding 22-6 win over France at the Olympic stadium on Saturday.
They have also eased past the Barbarians and Italy in recent weeks and Deans insists his team could not have hoped for a better preparation for their assault on world champions South Africa and arch rivals New Zealand.
"It's been a solid month for us. It's been a really good background for us," Deans said.
"This was a good test for us and I think we passed. The next one will be another step up again but we've started the habit of winning.
"Clearly there's not a going to be a lot in the tournament and the maths would support that as well, so I think we're in for a great Tri-Nations. All the indications are that that'll be the case."
Test
Australia have conceded just two tries in their four matches, while reigning Tri-Nations champions New Zealand have struggled with injuries and form in their lead-up matches, losing the first of two Tests at home to France.
The All Blacks, who have won the title for each of the past four seasons, will host Australia in the Tri-Nations opener on July 18 at Auckland's Eden Park, but Deans is confident of springing a surprise.
"We go into the deep end, so to speak," Deans added. "We came up well short there last year, but that will be a good focal point for us. We'll certainly refer to that in our preparation."
Deans is set to name his squad for the tournament in mid-week, meanwhile, with flanker George Smith poised to make his 100th Test appearance in his next game.
