Kurt Donoghoe made a major impact for Fiji, setting the standard in Sunday night's match against Australia.
The Dolphins player, usually a ball-playing lock off the bench, recorded three try assists and outshone Sam Walker and Tom Dearden.
His defensive energy and aggression also highlighted what Australia's forwards lacked.
Although Australia won 36-22, the margin overstated its performance against a Fiji side that showed considerable courage.
The Kangaroos' main concern is not a shortage of individual talent, but weak cohesion and teamwork.
That leaves coach Kevin Walters and his players under pressure before Saturday's final pool match against the Cook Islands.
If Australia does not improve, it could face a difficult semifinal against either Tonga or Samoa.