By John Davidson, (RLP RLWC Correspondent) Date: 17/11/13
The Kangaroos have knocked the plucky Americans out of the World Cup with a heavy 62-0 victory in Wales.
The result was predictable, with the Tomahawks turn to shreds by the livewire centre partnership of Greg Inglis and Jarryd Hayne in particular. Inglis wreaked havoc, scoring two tries and making a menace of himself in general with ball in hand. Hayne picked up four tries, setting up a few others as well, while Brett Morris also scored four, which equaled Australia’s individual World Cup record try-scoring record in one game.
Hayne may have booked a spot in the centres for next weekend’s semi-final over Brent Tate with an impressive performance. But there is also a small concern for the Australians, with fullback Billy Slater forced off just after half-time. Slater took a heavy hit and could be in doubt for the rest of the tournament, although Inglis is some replacement if that is the case.
For most of the game the Americans were starved off the ball and the Aussies had their way with them. The tries started two minutes from the opening bell with a soft four-pointer coming to Hayne in the corner after Inglis set him up.
Jonathan Thurston had an off day with the boot but the Kangaroos quickly raced to a 38-0 lead at the break.
The Tomahawks were being forced to make a huge amount of tackles and the Aussies pressure paid off. They were close to breaching the Kangaroos’ tryline a few times but the bounce of the ball just didn’t go their way.
The green and gold put on another 24 points on the minnows in the second half.
Cameron Smith and Cooper Cronk also crossed for tries, making 12 in all for Australia.
The try of the game came in the 78th minute courtesy of Corey Parker. A player not known for his flair, Parker ran to the line and flicked a no-look pass out the back for Hayne to stroll in for his fourth four-pointer. It was a lovely piece of magic and emphasized the gulf in class between the two teams.
Miserly in defence and clinical in attack, the Kangaroos have warmed up nicely for a semi-final meeting with either Samoa or Fiji at Wembley in a week’s time.
Australia 62, Tries: Smith, Cronk, Inglis (2), Morris (4), Hayne (4), Goals: Thurston (7).
United States 0
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