Captain Rocky Elsom and coach Robbie Deans had high praise for the young Wallaby team, following their epic win over the Springboks on Saturday.

A long range penalty goal by fullback Kurtley Beale with the last kick of the match enabled Australia to defeat South Africa 41-39 in a thrilling Tri-Nations match in Bloemfontein.

It sealed a first win on the Highveld for the visitors since 1963, when they won in Johannesburg.

The result meant the Springboks finish with the tournament's wooden spoon and the Wallabies reclaimed the Mandela Plate.

Australian captain Rocky Elsom praised an "excellent effort" by his team.

"I couldn't ask for anything more," he told his players, as he lifted the Mandela Plate.

"The way you applied yourself to your work this week has been a credit to you."

The coach, Deans, hailed the resilience of his young team.

"Overall, I was very pleased with the resilience shown by this side.," Deans said.

"This was the most experienced Bok side in history up against a young Wallabies side, so to achieve that landmark [a win on the Highveld] is significant.

"It will serve us well going forward."

The Aussie mentor also hailed the composure shown by Beale, who had earlier made a few blunders that led to points for the world champions.

"I knew it was always going to be a good prospect with KB," Deans continued.

"It must have been pretty humiliating to take a ball in the head in front of a capacity crowd, but he showed a lot to nail that kick."