Kiwi Ferns need complete performance in final
The Kiwi Ferns have the belief and desire — now they need their execution to click.
That’s the view of coach Ricky Henry ahead of their Rugby League World Cup final against Australia tomorrow at 2.15am.
The Jillaroos have seemed on a different level in recent years, winning the last two World Cups, albeit in close finals against New Zealand.
But their aura took a hit in last week’s group game, where the Ferns were a missed conversion away from grabbing a surprise draw. New Zealand led early in the second half and had late chances to win.
“We took a lot of confidence out of the game,” said Henry. “The main thing for us is our execution on a lot of our attack plays. We [have] created enough opportunities, we just have not been able to get the polish on completing them.”
Taking those chances will be vital against the clinical Australians and the underdog Ferns will lean heavily on halfback Raecene McGregor.
The 25-year-old has to fire — but that’s not hard to imagine, as she is enjoying a career season. After being named Dally M Player of the Year for her feats in the NRLW, she was this week recognised as the best female player in the world, honoured with the Golden Boot.
Understated off the field, McGregor is the Ferns’ game manager and playmaker.
“She’s a pretty quiet person [but] does ooze a lot of confidence,” said Henry. “She’s calm and collected, but she understands the game, and the way she’s playing, she can see things really easily. And you only get there when you’re at the peak of your powers.
“We’ve just got to harness that and get people around her to take a little bit of pressure off her.”
McGregor is part of a formidable right edge, with destructive second rower Amber Hall and powerful centre Mele Hufanga. Hall was the standout in the previous meeting with Australia, while Hufanga was superb in the semifinal win over England.
“[They] are massive strike weapons for us,” said Henry. “It’s pretty hard to handle but Australia obviously have a plan here.”
The Jillaroos had the benefit of resting seven players for the final, as back-up squad members were used in the 82-0 semifinal stroll over Papua New Guinea. The Ferns had a much tougher match, eventually subduing England 20-6.
“I don’t mind the path that we were on,” said Henry. “We’ll be match hardened and ready to play a gruelling encounter.”
But it’s a challenge, especially for the forwards, backing up for their third physical encounter in 10 days, and fatigue will be a factor.
Henry likes the balance in his pack — “we’ve got some quick players who complement the big powerhouses” — and they are primed for one more effort.
Handling the occasion is key. The team have enjoyed the week, with the positive vibes from McGregor’s individual honour extended when five players were named in the tournament team.
“We’ve got them to relax and enjoy the moment but also we don’t want to miss a beat, “said Henry. “We are taking our time to reflect.”
The team experienced final venue Old Trafford for the first time at the captain’s run, which only added to the buzz.
“It’s pretty unbelievable, to be fair, how the ground is elevated and the crowd is only two or three metres from the sideline.”
Henry has brought back AutumnRain Stephens-Daly on the right wing, instead of Katelyn Vahaakolo, while Christyl Stowers gained the final interchange spot ahead of Charlotte Scanlan.