Debutant Justin Harrison was outstanding

"The players have shown a lot of guts and character and I am proud of what they have achieved.

"But the bottom line is that the tour is all about winning - and we didn't achieve it."

While a dejected Johnson left the field, his opposite number, John Eales, was in jubilant mood after capturing a historic series win at Stadium Australia.

"The whole series just turned on a few things," said the veteran.

"I felt we had a bit more control throughout the match and though the statistics might not back this up and I thought we had the balance in terms of territory and defence."

While Eales provided the stability in the line-out, it was his second row partner Justin Harrison, making his Wallaby debut, who earned all the plaudits.

Emotional time

"Under this sort of pressure, his display was very special," added Eales.

"The key to the success of this team over the last few years is that people have performed to their potential."

For Rod Macqueen, the victory was the perfect way to end his dominant reign as Australian coach.

"There is a tear in my eye," said Macqueen, who will be replaced by ACT Brumbies coach Eddie Jones.

"It is a very emotional time and I have been privileged to work with a great bunch of people.

"We played against a very good side, who we respect a lot."