Australia stay cool against Fiji
November 13th 2008 08:17
Australia have dominated all before them in this world cup, but they are still vulnerable to the fact this could be their worst tournament showing in decades if they suffer an unexpected loss against the Fijians this Sunday.
The Kangaroos have won the past six rugby league world cups prior to the start of the Australian edition, so the pressure will be on from kick off against a Fijian side full of flair, counting with resurgent Eels star Jarryd Hayne.
Judging from Australia's world cup performances so far, they should have little trouble discounting the Fijians.
Ricky Stuart's side have been very impressive against title challengers England and New Zealand, with Australia's B team also performing well against Papua New Guinea.
But once a tournament reaches the knockout stages, anything can happen and the Kangaroos are now cautious of playing a side that really has nothing to lose come the semi-finals.
They have picked a full strength team against the Fijians, recalling back captain Darren Lockyer, Anthony Laffranchi, Billy Slater, Greg Inglis, Petero Civoncieva and Glenn Stewart.
Fiji's full strength side on the other hand, only counts with a handful of NRL players, led by Knights fullback Wes Naiqama and NSW centre Jarryd Hayne.
But try telling Cameron Smith that Fiji will be walkovers come Sunday night at the SFS.
"We're not taking anything for granted," Smith says. "People say our semi is going to be one-sided, but I'm not so sure about that.
"I think it's going to be a lot closer than some people think. I've been very impressed by Fiji. I didn't think they would be as structured as they are, but they've still got that flair about them as well."
Indeed the last thing on Smith's and team-mate Craig Fitzgibbon's mind is the final next week at Suncorp Stadium.
Fitzgibbon says he does not want to add 'fuel to Fiji's fire', considering they are already massive underdogs for the semi-final.
Indeed any more fuel and everyone might just back Fiji to cause the greatest upset in test history.
For that to happen however, Fiji would have to play their best football, while the Kangaroos would simply have to be off their game for an upset to eventuate.
But that's what so terrific about this Kangaroos side. They hardly produce a bad effort against any opposition, no matter how strong or weak they are prior to the showdown.
Although PNG have stolen the limelight somewhat in terms of passion for the test jersey, Australia have it in bucket loads as well, demonstrated by their ability to beat the best of teams, by playing no mercy type football.
Its what separates them from the rest of their opponents. And its likely again that it will be the difference against Fiji.
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