The Wallabies backline had a tough old time of it last week, but it wasn’t Israel Folau’s fault, according to his teammates.

The Wallabies failed to unlock South Africa’s defence in last Saturday’s 38-12 drubbing in Brisbane, with the home side committing a host of errors in their worst performance yet under new coach Ewen McKenzie.

Fullback Folau tried his best to create a number of attacking sparks, but his chances were limited due to the Springboks’ steely defence and dominance at the breakdown.

Centre Christian Leali’ifano felt Folau was one of the Wallabies’ best players on the park, but said the team needed to improve as a whole in order to give the 24-year-old more chances to weave his magic.

“I thought he played quite well. He was exceptional under the high ball,” Leali’ifano said.

“He got involved as much as he could.

“He just needs a bit more time there.

“The more he can get there, I think the more dangerous he’ll be.”

The Wallabies are desperate to snap their four-match losing streak when they face Argentina in Saturday night’s Test in Perth.

Argentina were competitive in recent losses to South Africa and NZ, and are expected to provide the Wallabies with a fierce physical test.

The Wallabies will again be without injured skipper James Horwill (hamstring), but lock Sitaleki Timani is a chance to play after being drafted into the squad.