Kiwis ready to prove their worth against England
THE Kiwis are only scratching the surface of their potential and should make big gains on their rugby league tour to England, according to coach Michael Maguire.
Feeling buoyant after their 26- 24 upset of Australia, an injury- free Kiwis squad depart Auckland on Monday for their three- Test assignment.
After two years of poor results and off- field turmoil, New Zealand’s triumph at Mt Smart Stadium would inject a young side with self- belief, Maguire said. They’ll need it against Wayne Bennett’s England, who are close to full strength.
“It was a good performance but we haven’t really done anything yet. It’s what we do over and over, is what we’re about,” Maguire said.
“I’ll get to know more about the boys. I only had three sessions with them last week.
“I think there’s an enormous improvement within the team that I’ve got.”
Maguire will make full use of the time before the opening Test in Hull on October 27, training for two days in Dubai en route to their base in Manchester. The remaining Tests are in Liverpool and Leeds.
He won’t rule out changes to his starting 13 or the Test squad. Brisbane winger Jamayne Isaako, Canberra forward Joseph Tapine and up to four Warriors players are among those Maguire could consider introducing.
“I’m prepared to make change if it’s needed,” he said.
“What they do away from the field is a big part of how I look at what I want on the field. They know just what’s expected.”
Maguire, who coached Super League outfit Wigan in 2010- 11, says the challenge is a sizeable one at loud, intimate venues which create an atmosphere that will be a new experience to some of the younger squad members.