ALLORA prop Greg Holmes made a crucial tackle which could yet help the Wallabies win the World Cup after a strong performance off the bench in a 35-34 Rugby World Cup win against Scotland early today.

On the television commentary early this morning, his hometown Allora was highlighted along with a reference to "the best little town on the Downs" being a town where Mary Poppins author Pamela lived in as a child.

Holmes came on in the 17^th minute of the second half at Twickerham as Australia used a new front row late in the game.

It was replacement prop James Slipper who threw a pass which Scotland intercepted for a converted try to snare a 34-32 lead with seven minutes to go.

John Hardie of Scotland was tackled by Holmes in the incident which resulted in a match winning penalty being awarded to Australia during the quarter final against Scotland.

With two minutes to go, flyhalf Bernard Foley landed the goal for a one-point victory. It wasn't Foley's best day with the boot as he landed four from seven but most importantly his last four attempts went over.

Holmes had been prominent with a strong run in the lead-up to the fifth Wallabies try and once again played mistake free footy.

Australia and Argentina will play one semi while New Zealand and South Africa will play in the other semi.

The game was the 22^nd for the Wallabies for Holmes but the 100^th for hooker Stephen Moore and centre Matt Giteau.