Wayne Bennett’s prickly post game interviews and his side’s indifferent on-field performances have left many English rugby league fans questioning his commitment to the role, and thus Bennett’s long term tenability. After a first up loss against the Kiwis and a mediocre effort in Round 2 versus the Scots, Bennett’s English side are little chance to make the final of the tournament they’re hosting. Local fans could potentially live with that result if it was apparent that Bennett had the best interests of the team’s future at heart, and had blooded some new players or improved the way they were playing the game. However, there’s little evidence that any of those are happening, save for maybe the bold decision to use George Williams instead of Gareth Widdop.
Bennett’s side probably only have one game to show he’s the right man to take England rugby league to the next level. Unless they beat the Kangaroos handsomely, his side are unlikely to make the final. It’s a tough ask against an Australian side that have been brokenly accurate and stiffling in the first two rounds.
Let’s take a look at the key talking points ahead of the Round 3 clash:
Teams
Australia: Darius Boyd, Valentine Holmes, Josh Dugan, Greg Inglis, Blake Ferguson; Johnathan Thurston, Cooper Cronk; Matt Scott, Cameroon Smith (c), Aaron Woods , Matt Gillett, Boyd Cordner, Trent Merrin. Subs: David Klemmer, Michael Morgan, Tyson Frizell, Sam Thaiday.
England (from): John Bateman, Kevin Brown, George Burgess, Sam Burgess, Thomas Burgess, Daryl Clark, Mike Cooper, Luke Gale, James Graham, Ryan Hall, Chris Hill, Josh Hodgson, Jonny Lomax, Jermaine McGillvary, Mark Percival, Kallum Watkins, Elliott Whitehead, Gareth Widdop, George Williams.
Team Selection Talking Points
Australia: Mel Meninga is fielding his strongest side as he prepares for an anticipated final. As a result, Cooper Cronk returns to the side and James Maloney drops out.
England: Wayne Bennett is keeping his side close to his chest, but James Graham is expected to be fit. Given the Kiwis win overnight, the game has added importance and Bennett hasn’t announced his final 17.
Tournament Form
Australia: Despite making a number of changes to their team throughout the opening two rounds, the Kangaroos have looked exceptionally impressive. After putting away Scotland easily, they beat New Zealand comfortably without ever really hitting top gear. It’s easy to get the impression that they’re simply shadow boxing their way through the round robin stages in readiness to explode in the final.
England: After dropping their match against the Kiwis, Sam Burgess’s men bounced back with a hard fought win against neighbours Scotland. They weren’t impressive, but they did enough to get the W and stay in the competition. In the must win finale, England have to improve their defence and discipline, and hope for something special from new halves combination Luke Gale and George Williams.
Odds
Australia: $1.25 offered by bet365 is the best price on an Aussie win.
England: $4.50 at Luxbet.
Prediction and Tips
It was 10 years ago when England last had a win against Australia. It was in the Great Britain days and not England days, yet since then Australia have rolled on with almost metronomic consistency. We expect another Australian victory. We’re picking an Australian win by 10 points.
