Rugby League - Kangaroos fall to the Kiwis

The new era of Australian Rugby League was on full display on Saturday when the Kangaroos took on the kiwis in Auclland minus likely future immortals Camerons Smith, Jonathan Thurston and Billy Slater as well as Cooper Cronk, it was the first time in over a decade not one of the illustrious four were lining up for the Roos. When you add to that list Greg Inglis and his 39 test caps of experience it was an extremely inexperienced line up and in the end i think it was found wanting as the Kiwis looked more dangerous and committed across the park for the duration of the game whilst prevailing 26-24.

Personally i think Mal Menniga picked an average side and made some crucial errors, most notably playing regular fullback Tom Trbojevic at center who looked completely lost in defense and had limited impact in attack. Ben Hunt coming off a disastrous end to the season with the Saints was picked as the utility interchange and once Luke Keary went off concussed early in the game had an opportunity to stand up and take control of the teams direction and completely fell short. Aaron Woods selection on the bench was also another howler, Woods has been playing bench minutes for the Sharks after being moved on from the Bulldogs and had limited impact. Latrell Mitchell whilst brilliant in attack was also exposed badly in defense by Roosters team mate Joey Manu and DCE and debutant hooker Damien Cook both had rather forgettable games.

Full credit to the Kiwis in winning the match they also were without some key players and had several on debut and early in there test careers but as the old cliche goes they simply seemed to want it more. Life doesn't get any easier for the new look Kangaroos who are facing a fired up Tonga in front of what will be a sell out crowd and with the whole of Auckland painted in a sea of red supporting the Maate Maate. The Kangaroos must be under no illusions this will be a tough encounter, i thought physically we didnt look willing against NZ and we must fix this and quick or find some guys who are willing to do so. Menniga has said he will be making no changes to the 17 to face Tonga and i genuinely hope he reconsiders this.