Michael Cheika has implored the Wallabies to build on their inspiring second Bledisloe Cup Test performance for the sake of Australian rugby.
New Zealand prevailed 35-29 in a pulsating clash in Dunedin on Saturday to retain the trophy for a 15th consecutive year.
But the Wallabies emerged with their reputations enhanced following a terrific and gallant display, racing to a shock 17-0 lead before twice coming from behind to nearly steal victory.
It is exactly what the 15-man code needed in Australia after a horrendous few months on and off the field.
And with the Wallabies' next match in Perth on September 9, the timing couldn't be more perfect.
Fans are expected to wear blue - not Wallaby gold - at nib Stadium for the clash against South Africa in protest of the Australian Rugby Union's decision to shut down the Western Force.
Cheika said the Wallabies have to remind them why they love the game.
"It's a huge match for us, for a number of reasons," he said.
"One because it's a game against South Africa, it's going to be a real contest - they've been playing excellent rugby this year.
"And two, because it's very important for us to go over to Perth and play a big match with everything that's been going on.
"We wanted to win so badly for Australian rugby tonight, not just for us. (We want to) give people a smile on their face around the game.
"We know what's happened, it'll be the elephant in the room as the game gets closer.
"But we want to go over there and play the best rugby we can so supporters from Perth ... we'll show how much we respect them and how much we want to play for them as well."
Pushing aside the disappointment of the result, skipper Michael Hooper said the match at Forsyth Barr Stadium was a fantastic advertisement for the sport.
"I'm sure people at home watching that game (were) on the edge of their seats, right to the final minute - it is a brilliant game, like no other in the world, and it does go down to the wire like that," Hooper said.
"Even last week, our last 30 minutes of the game was something to enjoy and put us back in perspective there.
"I think it certainly has got a great future."
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