Match thoughts
Congrats to Tonga. They were immense. Rumours of their demise greatly exaggerated. While at 9s they looked like they hadn't trained, against GB they looked polished and professional. What a difference a week makes.
They could use more out of the halves to take advantage of their territory but that said Lolohea looked better than he has in a long time at this level.
England in different shirts - same old England, same old GB, same old shite.
Some players past it but some players simply not good enough at all.
Wayne Bennett has in the last 4 years improved the defence and intensity of the English squad, undoubtedly. But his insistence on picking anyone who has ever set foot in Australia regardless of their actual talent has hobbled any gains they have made.
Coote is a 3rd rate fullback in Australia, Hastings is not close to a test quality footballer yet, and Widdop has always been a handbrake in the halves. His "tries from kicks" comment at half time.. whatever he had has been ruined by Paul McGregor.
GB/England/whatever has the talent to be better than they are, but they need a coach with faith in English Rugby League.
It's a pity NZ were fairly limp the day before.
The Tonga win and All Blacks loss sets up a decent chance at salvaging this mess of a season at Eden Park.
The narrative writes itself
Kiwis to get revenge for the All Blacks
Tonga to take on Australia
