Pocock’s men fell to a shock 9-6 defeat to Scotland in atrocious conditions in Newcastle on Tuesday. It was the first time Australia had crashed to a home defeat to the Scots in 30 years.
The fearsome flanker admits the loss was a bitter pill to swallow but he has urged Australia to bounce back against the Grand Slam champions.
“It was definitely not the start we were after for the Test season,” said Pocock.
“We go into Saturday after the loss knowing we have no option but to perform against Wales.”
Australia head coach Robbie Deans paid the price for selecting a weakened side against the Scots but has made nine changes to his team to face Wales.
Yet the Wallabies will still be without star backs Kurtley Beale, James O’Connor and Quade Cooper, as well as skipper James Horwill due to injury.
Wales have not beaten the Wallabies in Australia since 1969 but Pocock reckons the Grand Slam champions are a side to fear.
“They are Six Nations champions. Their attack is probably one of the best in the world in the way they use the ball, added Pocock.
“They have big guys in the backline, their centres create a bit of havoc and their wingers run really good lines.
“Defensively is one of the areas, over the last three or so years, they have really improved.”
Pocock admits the first Test in Brisbane will be of huge importance but he insists it is not the be-all and end-all of the three-match series.
“It is important because you win the first one, then you only have to win another one,” added Pocock.
“But like any three-Test series the first one is important but it’s not the end of it. You have three games.”
