Rugby Championship: Michael Cheika's dressing room explosion that sparked Wallabies' comeback

Wallabies coach Michael Cheika explodes during the halftime talk in Salta. Photo / Fox Sports

The Wallabies have pulled off one of their most memorable comebacks in history, fighting back from 31-7 down at halftime to beat Argentina 45-34 in their final Rugby Championship test in Salta.

It was redemption for the Wallabies, who lost to the Pumas last month on the Gold Coast and eased pressure on under-fire coach Michael Cheika.

But Cheika could take some of the credit, exploding at the side at halftime but inspiring the victory.

Speaking after the match, Fox Sports commentator Nick McArdle said: "I haven't seen him like that. He was wild with emotion".

Can't say I've seen a more passionate coach than Michael Cheika #ARGvAUS pic.twitter.com/yume3POSrW

— The Rugby Pod (@TheRugbyPod) October 6, 2018

Wallabies legends George Gregan and Phil Kearns agreed it was out of character but necessary from Cheika.

"You don't get that reaction from players if you do that every week and he shouldn't be in that position every week," Gregan said.

"There was no way they trained the way they played in that first half," Kearns added.

After a single win over South Africa in the tournament had left Australia on the verge of finishing last, the Wallabies were able to save some face after a horror opening half with an incredible comeback.

The Wallabies - and in particular Cheika - had come in for heavy criticism after a lacklustre first 40 minutes.

I’ve seen some gutless performances from the wallabies over the past decade but this is just embarrassing. The defence is a disgrace. #ARGvAUS

— JW (@rugbyaus1) October 6, 2018

I have no idea what the Wallabies defensive system is.

— iainpayten (@iainpayten) October 6, 2018

As disastrous a first half as I can recall from the Wallabies. Sydney 2017 Bledisloe areas.

Backs against the walls, everything to lose and they dish this up... What is doing#ARGvAUS

— Sam Phillips (@samphillips06) October 6, 2018