ANZAC Test Preview
0By Stephen Gallagher
Australia Kangaroos V New Zealand Kiwis – Friday, Canberra Stadium. 19.45 local time, 21.45 NZ time.
LAST TIME: October 13 2012 – The Kangaroos defeated the Kiwis 18-10 in a tense 80 minute affair.
THIS TIME: The Kangaroos have it good. They are the world’s best team on form currently and are always stellar in the ANZAC Test clashes.
The Kiwi’s will be hard pressed to find the goods on Friday. Arguably the two biggest guns missing – but they will go in with a lot of guys and determination.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Australia are just a top notch country with a million players to pick from. If they get it right, it’s going to be a boil over. The Kangaroos have a great ANZAC record which they would love to keep on their side. The ball doesn’t even need to touch the hands of the halves in this side. Class all over.
New Zealand needs everything on their side, and then some to overcome Australia. First time halves pairing of Shaun Johnson and Kieran Foran will need to be at their best to take apart this beast of a team. Up front is what will get the Kiwis over the line. A beast forward pack that has enough might that can keep them more then close in the contest.
THE BATTLE OF: Nonchalant nines: Cameron Smith is the cool, calm head that has everything planned out minutes before it happens. His ability to read the game is second to none. He is the true leader of this team.
Isaac Luke has been in very good form leading up to this match, and his form for the Kiwis in the last two tests against the Kangaroos has been exceptional and hard to beat. Let Bully get his hands on the ball as much as possible. His dummy half runs are glorious.
KEEP YOUR EYE ON: Luke Lewis – Coming off the bench, but you can never question his commitment to the game. He is an outstanding player.
Jared Waerea-Hargraves. There’s nothing more I love than watching this man fired up and taking aim at anyone. Has really come in to his own the last year. A huge asset to this side.
PREDICTION:
Can I dream and say this Kiwi’s side will upstage the Kangaroos on their home turf? I’d really love to say that. Williams and Marshall missing is the biggest key factor to me. Do me proud though boys. Australia to take this 26-20.
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