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'Folau slaughtered that last play' - Australian public turns on Wallabies star after Argentina loss

September 17, 2018

The Australian rugby public have unleashed on star Israel Folau, after his refusal to set up teammate Bernard Foley for a potential match-winning try against Argentina on Saturday night.

During the final moments of Australia's shock 23-19 loss to Los Pumas on the Gold Coast, Folau decided to run the ball at the Argentinian line, with Foley waiting unmarked to his right.

Instead, Folau was sandwiched by three Argentine defenders, surrendering possession to give the Pumas a famous victory on Australian soil.

Naturally, social media was abuzz with criticism towards Folau, with the defeat seeming to have hinged on the winger's selfishness,

"Israel Folau has absolutely cost Australia that Test match. Sorry, but that's just what happened," wrote AAP's Vince Rugari.

"Israel Folau has just cost the Wallabies the victory. 10m from tryline and Foley on his outside, open, he decided to take on 3 defenders himself," began Supersport's Derek Alberts.

"Knocks on. Criminal."

Former ABC commentator Peter Wilkins had some of the harshest words for Folau, saying:

"Folau slaughtered that last play. 50 times out of 50 it's a simple pass for the win. They'd set it up perfectly."

"Coach killer. You're only as good as your last performance/play."

"Butchery of the highest order from Folau with seconds left on the clock. Cost Australia the game," wrote the Irish Independent's Cian Tracey.

The loss to Argentina means Australia have dropped to an all-time low seventh in World Rugby's rankings.

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