Wallabies can still win Tri-Nations, says Connolly

George Gregan at Wallabies training in Sydney yesterday. Chris McGrath / Getty Images

Wallabies coach John Connolly says winning this year's Tri-Nations series is still a realistic goal.

Australia has already lost twice to the undefeated All Blacks, but will be aiming for its second win against South Africa in Sydney on Saturday night.

Connolly says with the series at the halfway mark, anything is possible.

"We know it is, we know that we need a result this weekend and we need a result in Auckland," he said.

"And if that's the case, the All Blacks still have to go to South Africa and it has been very tough for them.

"So we'd like to be in a position in that last game to win."

Australia's defensive coach, John Muggleton, said the team was aiming for another shut-out against South Africa.

The Springboks were held scoreless for only the second time in their 100-year rugby history when they lost 49-0 to the Wallabies in Brisbane last month.

Muggleton said it was a huge achievement for his side and they were keen to do it again.

"That's what we're always aiming for," he said.

"I think they helped us out with their lack of ball security last time round and they failed to put too many phases together.

"I wouldn't expect that they'd go in with the same sort of free attitude."

- RADIO AUSTRALIA