PAULO FREE TO FOCUS ON CUP FINAL
CAPTAIN Junior Paulo has spoken of his relief at being cleared by the World Cup match review committee – leaving him free to focus on preparing for the biggest match in Samoan history and a date with Parramatta teammate Reagan CampbellGillard.
Paulo was sin-binned and placed on report during Sunday night’s (AEDT) game against England at Emirates Stadium for a lifting tackle on Tom Burgess, sparking immediate fears that he would be sidelined for the World Cup final. Even Paulo’s father, who was at the game, was concerned.
“Spoke to my dad straight after the game when I came over to the stands,” Paulo said.
“The first thing he said to me was he was worried about me going to the judiciary again. That was not what I was expecting when I came off the field – I was expecting congratulations.
“I had a bit of a smile. Like I said, these things happen in the game. Accidents are going to happen, and I am lucky to be playing this week.”
Paulo got the good news when he woke in England the day after the game, receiving a text message from coach Matt Parish confirming that the match review committee had issued him a caution and no more. Paulo’s leadership, size and power will be vital if the island nation are to match the intensity of the Australian pack and his good mate Campbell-Gillard.
Campbell-Gillard played just over 30 minutes against the Kiwis as he made his way back from injury, enough time for him to make seven runs and 20 tackles. He will be better for the run as the Kangaroos prepare to defend their title at Old Trafford on Saturday night (AEDT).
Standing in their way will be the powerful Samoan pack led by Paulo.
“It means everything to me,” Paulo said. “I couldn’t imagine myself missing what is going to be one of the most important games for Samoan rugby league.”