Foley, whose nickname is Iceman, contributed 28 points in a masterful display from fly half as Australia dumped England out of the World Cup with a crushing 33-13 triumph at England HQ.
Prior to the match Foley was deemed a potential weak link in the Aussie backline but he made the critics eat their words with a dominant display in the Wallaby No 10 shirt.
It remains to be seen if Australia coach Michael Cheika retains Foley in the crucial role of fly half against Wales, but he expecting Warren Gatland to have his side pumped up for what promises to be another classic encounter between the two protagonists.
“We always come up against each other and it often goes to the last 10 minutes. High scoring, a few tries scored, you can’t relax and their outside backs certainly can hurt you,” he said.
“Once you’re in the battle you forget all previous games and form, it’s down to the next play or job you have on the field. The way Michael Cheika has approached it – he hasn’t been part of any of those previous matches – so there’s nothing to take from his era.”
With England being bundled out of the Group of Death by Australia, Wales and the Wallabies are guaranteed a quarter-final spot but Foley was quick to quash any thoughts that his side already have one eye on who they will play in the knock-out stages of the tournament.
“I haven’t looked at the potential match-ups. We are just focused on Wales and how they will challenge us in different games – a quality side. They have the ability to stay in the games, England couldn’t shake them, they’re very passionate and up for the contest.”
