Final: Australia v New Zealand Rugby League: Four Nations

Welcome to the international rugby league on the BBC. This afternoon

the two best teams from Down Under battle it out up here at Anfield for

the Four Nations trophy. The Kiwis verses the Kangaroos. Walk

on. Against the reigning Four Nations champions. With hope in your

hearts... Now we see the magic. What a try that is.

And you'll never walk alone. And Nightingale will take it to the

corner... You'll never walk alone. By Johnson again... You'll never

walk alone. You'll never walk alone.

Well, we are here at Anfield, as the stadium makes its international

rugby league debut with a cracking game. The reigning world champions,

Australia take onside ranked number one in international rugby league,

New Zealand and the Kiwis will relinquish that title if they lose

today. As far as the Australians are

concerned, they have the exact same starting 13 that beat England at the

Olympic Stadium last weekend. The only change on the bench is Shannon

Boyd. As far as New Zealand are concerned, Harris, who normally

plays second row comes in at half-back. While we are here at

Anfield with a man representing New Zealand in the former Australian

international and for once Brian Noble playing the neutral, aren't

you? You have to have your sensible head on. If that is possible. I'm

the referee today. Yes. How do you see this going? Well, I think

Australia are in good form. They are after the number one spot. My

feeling the Kiwis will have to do something.

It is certainly not, it is a performance issue rather than a

belief issue for the Kiwis. They know they can win when playing the

Australians. They can perform with Tohu Harris going into the half-back

is a big issue for them. Australia have looked so smooth throughout

this tournament Any They know what point to get to. They defend really

well. As far as New Zealand, they need to think outside the box. They

need to play with off-loads and you need possession to do that. As Brian

said, Robby, it is not a believe belief issue given what has happened

between them over the last decade. Well, looking at the New Zealand

team, the narrative out of their camp, is they have not hit the

strengths they would have hoped so over the four weeks. What I think

they have done is lulling everyone into a false sense of security, so

the Australians come in too cocky and they will blow them away today.

That is what I am hoping anyway. We will hear more from these three over

the course of the afternoon. Right, it is the two best teams in the

world going head-to-head, orchestrating the play this

afternoon arguably the two best number nines in the world.

Getting to play in places like this... We had a go, be involved in

the final and we've done that. Cameron Smith, the captain... Going

over... A lot of very good judges would say

this sees the two best hookers in the world. It is good to be in the

same category as Cam. I have been for the last two seasons. Two

different type of hookers. Iaaac, he's a runner. When I was on the

field we had to be ready. Any little opportunity he's seen,

attack, he'll take you on. How he can control the game.

Cameron Smith has got the measurement done. That is an

inch-perfect kick. He's quite aggressive. And there's a punch-up

going on here. You can see how he leads and you see him play, he

doesn't look like he's tired. He's always been a threat to every team

he's played against. It will be the same this Sunday.

What is the art to being a good half? First and foremost you feed to

provide good service to your team-mates, have a good awareness of

what's going on in the field. Have a good awareness. If you don't it is

costly. I wasn't naturally a hooker. I am naturally a full-back. That is

probably why they have put me in the mid-. We are a dying -- In the

middle. We are a dying breed. Playing in those key positions in

the field where we are very much important to our team's performance

out there. It has been a fabulous Four Nations. It is the Kiwis who

are crowned champion of home soil. And it is your Four Nations. You

don't want to give that up lightly, do you? No way. We dug pretty deep

to get this top one ranking. We want to be the number one team this the

world again. We want the Four Nations trophy. We' made the final.

Hopefully. That blings us the number one ranking.

Well, a week ago straight down pipside here at Anfield and John

will kin will talk us how through New Zealand will play this

afternoon. We heard about how returning to being the number one is

so important to this test team. A proud nation. Their game has been

built on power and punch through the middle of the fieldch we see their

forwards here practicing, bursting through the line. One of the key

things for the New Zealand side is the likes of these guys over here.

Jason Taumalolo, who is about to carry the ball here. Off-loading to

Jason Taumalolo. This man here is a huge, huge presence for the Kiwis.

Watch out for Jason Taumalolo carrying the ball. Not only that, I

believe to break the Australian team down the likes of him, 40-test

veteran Blar, we see them bring in others into the game will be

crucial. Excited about what this New Zealand pack can do this afternoon.

Brian, how you wow describe this -- how would you describe this Four

Nations? How would you describe the Kiwis? Bumpy. I don't think they

have played at their best at times. They are to find the game with this

team. All the Kiwis have the skill set to play second set football and

Johnson is on his own today. A lot of pressure on him to attack both

sides of the field, as Rob will outline later. You mention Johnson,

you always want to talk about Shaun Johnson... Man crush. And show the

try where he broke English hearts in the World Cup in 2013. Well, the

Australians actually they don't fear anything in rugby but Shaun Johnson

could give them some headaches. We know how quality her is. On a one-on

one situation, to die for. He can create more prompts, there you can

see he's not just holding the guy in front of him, he's holding three in.

You can see the three or four arrows, that creates a space.

He can do that to not just one defender but many. Australia have to

be looking to defend and take his time off the ball. Cut down. This is

what happens if you go out one minute out of time he will

capitalise on that space and he's going to expose you and once he gets

into broken play, absolutely anything can happen. We have seen

him create tries and set up tries from these situations. Not only that

put good kicks in with a set, defensively right on the

opposition's goal line. I think Australia would have spoken

about this week, don't spoke him. No-one fly out of the line and spook

him. Hold your line nice and straight and you are bluffing, but

if someone tries to go crazy at him and spook him in a run at the game.

You have to work as a unit to deal with it? And you have to move up as

a defensive line, but don't spook him into running into a hole. Shaun

Johnson's body works independently of his brain. Its reaction. Took

years and years if you run out, he will not set you up and think about

it, it will react. Once that broken line comes, that's when it is

dangerous to Australia. The other thing he's added to his game, he was

as proud of his kicking game against Scotland as he was to do with

anything to do with his team work. He will be relying on that. We can

move on to Australia and John Wilkin will tell us how they will play this

afternoon. You have your full-back, six, seven

and nine and we will talk a lot about Cameron Smith but this player

plays a fundamental role in everything Australia do. His link

with Smith was the unlooking of England. If we look at his kicking

game here, it is reputation, repetition. It is what Cooper Cronk

brings to this side. If we get over here we will have a chance to chat

with Cameron Smith who has led this side for so long. A huge game today.

Are you excited to be at Anfield, I am sure? Fantastic. It is where we

want to be in this tournament, the final at Anfield. It is a great

ground. We are all very excited about being here. What do you expect

from New Zealand today? It will be a pretty hot start from both games.

They have picked a big, aggressive side. They have some sides on their

bench too. A couple of young guys too, which brings excitement to

their team. They will be quite physical. Our preparation has been

great. We've had some good wins across this tournament and hopefully

another one today. All the best mate. Cheers. Thanks. Oh special

people En can shorten Cameron Smith. He's just one of several who can

marshal Australia around the field. We were talking about the kicking

ability of Cooper Cronk, for example. Well, Cameron Smith, Cooper

Cronk and Frizell are all great kickers. For three options, three

kickers, I think there'll be a few 40, 20s from those guys. New

Zealand, the goal kicker is Johnson. Issac a little. You have been

looking at something Australia did particularly against England,

something they could do today. I think it is a picture, their backrow

is good. It is Gillett. Blistering footwork. He tries to hold up the

England defence. For our viewers he tries to compress. What he does is

open the game up for Smith, for Cronk and for the next player. Here

he is against the grain, if that is the right expression, with right

footsteps, looking for an opportunity for himself to get

through the line. We see five or six England defenders having to pay

attention to him. It opens up the outside. Here we are again, who will

come up, for Cronk and it is Gillett who is blisteringly quick. Has made

several 90-metre breaks. Right footstep, right footstep. He

attracts four or five England defenders, which makes the next

player more appealing to the Australians. How do you defend

against that? You have to straighten off on the inside of the pack. It is

not just the guy who has stood inside. It comes all the way back

from the marker players themselves. Actually to the other side of the

mark of play as well. You have to defend from the inside out. If

players come back on the inside and a guy with Gillett's footwork and

speed off the mark, for a guy that size, it is dangerous if you don't

do it from the inside out. Just the mental part of the game and

mental toughness is so important, especially when you get to the

biggest games of your career. You look for a moment when someone

switches off and if he goes right for it, it might tie in. If he goes

right foot again, it is one person who may switch off who can cost a

Four Nations final. What happened on the inside, when the ball goes away

from him, some lazy forwards go, I feel I can have a rest. This is

where we talk about mental toughness, for that player to go, I

cannot rest, I can have go from the inside as well. You can have a rest

now. Here are both coaches with Tanya. The big team news for you,

you put Tohu Harris in. Why did you decide that and why him? I said

early on we had full confidence in whoever would feel that role and

Tohu Harris has trained there the last three times. We've got full

confidence in the job that he's going to do today. You have the same

starting 13. Were you happy with what they did last week? Very happy,

actually. Considering how well the English played and how well we had

to hang in there particularly in the first half. They all deserve their

spots this week and look forward to playing out here in Anfield.

Obviously that number one spot in the world you want to keep it. They

want it back. How much is a focus for that you for? It puts a lot of

excitement into the game. To be able to play a ground like Anfield, it

makes it more exciting and the boys and I are looking forward to the

challenge which is going to be needed for the whole 17 to come out

with the outcome we want. You are a Liverpool fan, what is it like to be

here? It has been a buzz. With the press conference here with the

captain's run, it is awesome venue and hopefully we will get a few fans

out there calling for the Australian boys. Enjoy the game. I would

imagine it hurts Australia not to be number one in the world? We don't

think about it at all! LAUGHTER Everyone wants to be number

one. When you are in sport you want to be in number one and hold that

position too. It will hurt Australia. This is an opportunity to

get it back, I guess. One of the frightening thing I think about

Australia is the humility they have shown in this tournament. They are

focussed. There is a laser beam focus they have about getting the

number one position back. That is frightening for a Kiwi. Has it

surprised you, the humility or from the New Zealand point of view? The

Australians in the past, it could be argued they have walked around with

a cockiness. This is it. The Four Nations final. The number one

ranking is on the line as well. This is it. Live from Anfield on the BBC.

And we wait for the teams to come out.

New Zealand have to start much more quickly than they did at Coventry a

couple of weeks ago. They have to be in the game after 20 minutes. If it

is a one-score game, then they are. It is a performance for the Kiwis.

It is carrying the ball, defending. I think Australia will know they

will come with some aggression. This is it. As both teams walk below that

famous "this is Anfield" sign. The first rugby game to take place. The

Cop is nearly full here at Anfield. And as we have been saying, the

number one ranking is on the line, as well as the Four Nations trophy.

And as the fireworks go off and the flame burners around the side of the

pitch go off, we are ready for the national Ann themes, starting with

New Zealand. # Australians all let us rejoice

For we are young and free # We've golden soil and wealth for

toil # Our land abounds in Nature's gifts

Of beauty rich and rare # In joyful strains then let us sing

Advance Australia fair # Beneath our radiant Southern Cross

We'll toil with hearts and hands # To make this Commonwealth of ours

Renowned of all the lands # With courage let us all combine

To Advance Australia Fair # In joyful strains then let us

sing, Advance Australia Fair. # BOTH ANTHEMS HAVE BEEN COMPLETED

THEN AND NOW BEFORE THE GAME GETS UNDER WAY, THE FOUR NATIONS FINAL

the New Zealand players Well there is a challenge laid down.

It is terrific. Every time we see it, it is terrific. We are about to

get the real thing under way in a few moments' time.

Shannon Boyd winning his 22nd cap here today.

Dugan and Inglis, the centre partnership. The halves, the classy

halves of Jonathan Thurston and Cooper Cronk. In the front row of

Scott Smith and Woods. In the backrow Cordner, Merrin and Gillett.

On the bench Morgan and Klemmer. And a man who has really impressed in

this tournament Frizell and Boyd coming into the 17 today. So New

Zealand have had a particular backhead.

At number six they had had problems. So Taupau plays at standoff today.

He is exceptional. Bromwich, Issac Luke in the middle of those. Another

potentially eye-catching player. Jason Taumalolo, will we see the

best of him today. On the bench Brown and Taupau. Eastwood and

Tapine making up that bench. The referee is an Australian.

This could be very special. Their journey has taken them through

plenty of wind and rain in the past month. It is not golden skies over

Liverpool, but Anfield is ready for the coming together of these two

great rugby league nations. It is a true heavy-weight fight. The world

number one rankings and a four nation's trophy, the price for the

winners today. How do we see this going? It will be very tight. Under

Keith Mangan they have not conceded more than 12 points apart from one

game. They have not been so blunt with

ball in hand. The enforced back selection of Harris at centre half.

The kicking game will be crucial. Australia the advantage there with a

number of kickers. Johnson has had an amazing game, he will play out of

his skin. He is the main threat. Really looking forward to this game.

It could be a classic. Blake Ferguson patching that easily

enough. Australia back in contention. We have seen glimpse of

Johnson. Four years ago, in that Four Nations final he was

electrifying when New Zealand downed Australia in Wellington and the

Kiwis followed his lead. Boy, do they need something similar here

today. Australia, starting as favourites. They have been in

tremendous form throughout this Four Nations. All three of their games

have been very efficient with a great deal of flare. It revolves

around the nine-seven-six of Cronk, Thurston and Cameron Smith. There is

Cronk with a kick. New Zealand, well get used to this,

this will be a familiar theme. New Zealand often have to start from

close to their own goal line because of the efficiency of Australia.

Relentless efficiency. That is what it is. Late, late call by the

referee, on the field said play on. Jordan Rapana thought he had an

opening. He's given the knock-on. That's what

they do. Great yardage by the forwards. This is a hit, is it a

knock-on? Does it go backwards? I think the referee has got it right.

Lost control of the ball and although the New Zealand side tried

to play on, that is the correct decision from the officials and it

is a great attacking set, so early in the game for the guys in green

and gold. That's a great ball and Blake

Ferguson, with less than three minutes played, scores in the

corner. Australia starting in the manner which they hope to play the

entire 80 minutes, on the front foot and in the lead.

That's a marvellous try, isn't it. Forced by the Australian, defence

there, forced the error and then the split three-three, the Australian

side and New Zealand went four-two defensively and that created extra

man for Ferguson to cross. The outside defender is worried

about his place, so the centre goes in. A beautiful pass. He's having a

great year, Blake Ferguson, the Sydney Rooster winger. His

international debut against New Zealand back in May. He

international debut against New Zealand back in May. He is winning

his sixth cap tonight, and that is his fifth drive. And one of the

easier finishes he has had, created by that fantastic pass. Absolutely

on the money. Australia see that there might be a weakness in Paris,

the half-backs, they picked him out where he is defending and challenge

him straightaway. -- a weakness in Harris.

Johnathan Thurston, just in from this right touchline. Readjustment

of the body armour. Thurston's kicking has been pretty good

throughout this tournament as well. He is not going to be rushed. And he

has just, just got it over. We remember it hitting the frame of the

gold in the four Nations Grand Final a couple of years ago, and he has

had one or two close measures since. You know, it's a problem for them.

Brilliant pass by Boyd. Already, a big test of mentality for New

Zealand. That draw against Scotland just over a week ago rather deflated

them. They are here almost by default because of England's defeat

to Australia, and they knew they were coming into it as rank

underdogs. To concede so early, they are going to have to dig deep. It's

a test of their mental toughness. They've got to hang in, forget about

the scoreboard, work the process of rugby league and grind themselves

back into the game. Cameron Smith, the dummy half, and Scott to his

right. Drawn on. 40 away on the sixth tackle. What price a kick here

that puts New Zealand under pressure? A super take. Cooper Cronk

of Melbourne and Adam Blair, who was his team-mate up until a couple of

years ago. I don't think he was too happy with Blair. He felt he

followed through with the challenge, but the official has deemed there is

no problem. Already committed. As New Zealand received the ball, they

have now got an interference at the ruck. The need to put pressure on. A

brilliant take. Pushing the Australian players back. So much

traffic, so much pressure from the Australian side. Blair, across the

line. Johnson bringing an the attack. Proctor, his off-load is

good. Jason Taumalolo, and New Zealand with a decent response.

They've got a penalty, which will help their cause. Issac Luke wants

to take it quickly. New Zealand have to continue to off-load, to play

second phase rugby league. When the Australian defensive line is so

difficult to break down, that may be the key to a good New Zealand

performance, off-loading the ball and plenty of support around the

ball in collision. Six tackles deep inside their opponents' half for New

Zealand. Johnson issuing the commands ahead of the kick. And

you'd probably sense most of the English- Scottish rugby league

supporters here would be on the side of New Zealand.

Blair helped it on. Jesse Bromwich striding over the bodies of the

Australian defenders, but they just about manage to put him down. Great

position by New Zealand. Still tackles in the back. They love

that by Jason Taumalolo. They love the physical contact. Five bomb, and

here is the last. It's a poor pass. Johnson struggles to recover.

Brilliant, out of Blair's handling. Terrific. The kick at the end is

overcooked. But Blair, what was that about? New Zealand, their shoulder

passes, they are having to check the movement, which takes all of the

momentum out of the pace. The first task was to Johnson to say. They

need to get the execution better if they are going to trouble the

Australian defence. If he had had his hair cut, you would have thought

that was Shaun Johnson, Adam Blair. He's a bit bigger. Australia have

knocked on. I tell you, for all of the strutting start that they made,

Australia, they are rocking a little at the moment. They are, but they

will go back to plan one, their defensive work. Good defence, trying

to play the ball quickly. Looked as though he lost it in the collision.

Boyd Cordner with the error. A fair bit of pressure. New Zealand are

asking questions of the Australian defence. Johnson on the inside half.

Five tackles to go from here for New Zealand. Again, a great position.

Bromwich once more thundering forward. Issac Luke wants it played

quicker. Switches it left to Johnson. Inside again to the man of

the moment, Adam Blair, who has had a terrific start to this game.

Johnson is giving it across. It's gone short for Proctor. He has

almost got it through. Two tackles. New Zealand scratching towards that

line. Johnson kicked it for himself. No chase, but Darius Boyd still

deems it necessary to put behind what a drop. Unfortunately for Shaun

Johnson, there is nobody else is there to orchestrate the attack. He

has to be on top of his game and so far he's been brilliant. They are so

confident in their rock-solid defence. If they put them under

pressure, they pound the ball, they say, see if you can break us down,

and that is the challenge to the Kiwis. 14-84 Australia when these

two met in the group stages of this championship. The first half of that

game, Australia very dominant. They couldn't get over the line too

often. New Zealand very nearly snatched it at the end.

They are making a couple of line breaks. Issac Luke looks left. Jesse

Bromwich twists and turns, and just as well for the Kangaroos that there

were so many in green and gold. So a penalty. That is better than a

try. From an Australian point of view. Despite Jesse Bromwich's best

efforts. Australia are not going to allow him to ground the ball. They

choose instead to give the penalty away. A great spell for the Kiwis.

It started horribly, conceding in the third minute, but their response

has been exemplary. Can they turn that into points?

Issac Luke goes to the right-hand side and Johnson again. Butter

fingered, Shaun Kenny-Dowall. The ball is dropped. That will be a huge

disappointment. This is just a calamity for them. First tackle, ten

metre area, they had to build the pressure and get something from it.

Jon Wilkin on the sidelines. We have seen two ways in which New Zealand

can approach Australia, one unfruitful, trying to break

Australia down through structure, and the off-loads through Blair and

Bromwich, in the game plan before, I thought it would work, and it's down

the Australian line. More of that, less of the structured stuff.

Australia have been charged with trying to break this ball away from

their own goal-line. Cameron Smith that the feet of Ferguson. It is the

outside backs who are going to get through some work here to try and

make growing pressure on their forwards.

Josh Dugan put down. Good use of the short head, creating an overlap.

High enough to offer a challenge. Caught by Ferguson. Caught safely by

Solomone Kata. You would be happy with that, under pressure, turning

the ball over ten metres away from the New Zealand line. Once again,

you trust this time the aggressive defence against New Zealand, out

from their own half. The revelry offering to go back and play that

ball again. Shaun Kenny-Dowall might feel he has a point to prove against

Australia, that match against her. Shaun Kenny-Dowall, they are

creating the numbers. Johnson makes some space. Valentine Holmes puts

the foot down the other way. Back in black. New Zealand blow one chance.

Australia work another. A great passage of play. More than a half

chance by New Zealand and diffused by Greg Inglis, and Australia

countering immediately. Desperate tackle, numbers on the right-hand

side. Down goes Trent Merrin. Still got a couple of plays to go,

Australia, in a decent position. Trent Merrin flicks it away. Darius

Boyd! His past finds Josh Dugan. Australia in for a second. You've

got to take your hat off to them, they have soaked up so much pressure

and yet they come up with a try. Unfortunately for Johnson, he had a

forward on the outside and couldn't get in support of him. Darius Boyd's

concluding so far has been immense. The second try, Egypt the line. This

is it, Proctor on the outside. -- he hit the line. This is the counter

attack. Just watch Darius Boyd's inclusion. Number one, there is the

off-load. He waits. Cronk, Harris, the number six, the forward makes it

stand up, caught short on the defensive side. He is too slow,

getting on the outside of him. He's got a step in once again, the

second's got to step in, and an easy try. I've also got to admire the

handling skills of Australia. Right from the off-load to all of the

passes after that, every single pass was great to hand, no checking of

stride. It was executed perfectly. -- every single pass was great then.

Clinical. The centre came inside because they think he is too slow.

Brilliant. How deflating is that for the Kiwi psyche, given that they had

their opportunities, they have looked good, and yet they find

themselves two scores behind. Successful from the touchline with

his first attempt. Just wide with his second. But Australia lead 10-0.

Tremendous work. Just look at the class. -- pass. The skill was

phenomenal. Even when they got the error and they may be run by

Valentine Holmes, it showed composure just to take the tackle,

bring the ball back into play. They trust each other and trust the

systems they are playing under. And we are saying goodbye to several of

these Australian players in terms of performing on English soil, the

likes of Johnathan Thurston, Cameron Smith, probably. Maybe Greg Inglis

as well. But we are saying hello to some future superstars, Valentine

Holmes, Rush Duggan, winning only his sixth cap day-to-day. -- Josh

Dugan. Smith up again. Thurston to his

right hand side, trying to dodge under the high arm from Bromwich.

Last tackle to come. Cooper Cronk gets the ball away despite the

attention of Issac Luke, and Feeley has not provided safety for New

Zealand. Another set of six, and Valentine Holmes held up. A penalty

to Australia. They will be disappointed. Interesting that

Australia are going for the two points. Here is the kick. In all

honesty, Jordan Rapana has to reel back in. At this level, you've got

to claim those kicks. It will go to a full two scores' difference. You

have to admire the kicking game. Every kick is on the button, every

one is there, and you have to compete for it. When there is

traffic, as John mentioned earlier, there is a chance of a drop kick,

and they work the percentages all the time. Thurston puts that over,

his second out of three, and Australia are leading 12-0. Watching

the warm up, the two kickers, Thurston and Cronk, where

practising. All of them were in the correct area. It's like anything

else, perfect practice next perfect, and that is what they are

demonstrating once more. Issac Luke with the restart. Australia come

again in the shape, in the first instance, of Matt Scott. It is

relentless. Let's get this out of the way, Jonathan Davies, you have

played here at this Anfield pitch. Yes, I scored exactly. Unbeaten on

this pitch. I beat Wigan in the Charity Shield. It didn't happen

very often in those days, but it's a fantastic place to play. When you

play in the great arenas, Old Trafford, Wembley, Anfield, it's

just a pleasure. They are great memories to have. Magnificent

stadiums. It is a fantastically populated stadium as well, given

that it's a neutral final, if you like. No home nation involvement,

but still plenty of people back in, as Thurston with the chip. An easier

catch this time. Boyd trying to get up there and dragged him down. New

Zealand start in in familiar territory. If you are going to play

Australia, you need to practice a lot of sets starting from your own

five metres, because you will get plenty of chances to execute them in

the game. That was clumsy from Issac Luke. He tried to cover his mistake.

Forcing the error. Look where they are again. It's their field

position. Possession is about 50-50 but field position has been in

Australia's favour. It's been helped by errors like that from Issac Luke,

trying to generate a bit of energy and speed. Unfortunately, an error.

When you look at players like Brett Kenny, the errors made, maybe as

individuals, they have players like Cooper Cronk, Thurston, Cameron

Smith, but as a unit, I don't think I haven't seen better. Queensland's

success has been based on those three and Australia's has as well.

Australia pushing hard at this New Zealand line again. Cronk goes left

to Scott. Another with that north Queensland connection. Now it is

with Smith, and a short pass and an easy route over for Trent Merrin.

New Zealand defenders all look at themselves on the back of that.

Merrin crashes over a third Australian try. Boy, do they want

this crown! They want the number one spot in the rugby league world

rankings, and they are going to get it, on the evidence of the first 25

minutes or so. One of the unsung heroes of this Australian pack. They

have isolated him, one on one. The New Zealand defenders looking for

the back man play, and it's a beautifully weighted pass from

Cameron Smith to Merrin and it allows him to get one-on-one with

the defender and crashed over for a very well worked for points. -- four

points. When Cameron Smith picks the ball up, he just fades the goal the

other way and goes back the other way, he keeps the defenders honest

at the tackle. -- he just faints the goal. He goes right, then he goes

the other way and holds the defence. We will have a look in just a

moment. We will watch the conversion first of all from Johnathan

Thurston. It's a bit delayed. They have to give the ball back

eventually! There is an indicator for the Australians of where the

ball is going to go, cause they have so many accomplished ballplayers, so

many creators of attacking opportunities. Already, a fourth

attempt at goal. He is in no rush. Eventually he

kicks it, and it's over. So it's 18-0, Australia now lead. The role

that Cameron Smith played in all of that, Jonathan. He gets the ball.

Can't really see from that angle. He takes the ball up, and the interests

the defender just enough to turn him in towards him for giving the

softness of passes to Trent Merrin to crash over. They really have the

skills and execute them to perfection. 23 minutes played.

Australia leading 18-0. We are sitting back and admiring what

Australia are doing. What about on the sidelines, Jon Wilkin?

Well, he isn't there at the moment. We will speak to him shortly!

Again the off-load, and Cameron Smith is finding a bit of room in

which to run. He is put down desperately, but Australia are

already inside their opponents' half.

He has reeled the ball in. The error has come, this time not forced.

That's a poor error away from the collision. It really is. In this

mood, Australia are going to exploit that. Greg Inglis is put down on

that occasion at least. But Australia are more again. Here is

Boyd Cordner. Cameron Smith out of dummy half, but Aaron Woods just

poaching forward again. Australia poised, New Zealand depending on

their own line. Smith out, Cronk misses Batt. A couple, taken on by

Josh Dugan. Use the link desperately getting to their man, but Boyd

stands and weights. -- New Zealand desperately getting to their man.

Last play in this set. It's a high one, a tester, Jordan Kahu

underneath it, but that is where they start again, so close to their

own line. I think we can now hear from Jon Wilkin. One of the most

impressive things about this Australian side is something we talk

about, the rugby league brains they've got in the team. Cameron

Smith, first, and Cooper Cronk, they are not physically great specimens.

In rugby league and union, we have been obsessing about creating

athletes. These guys are not athletic. But they have great rugby

brains and they understand the game. That has been the difference between

the sides. I think that will be a knock-on from New Zealand. They

tried off-load but it went forward. What Jon said is a passive factor.

-- massive factor. If you look at both codes and those at the top of

each respective code, it is the rugby league knowledge that is the

difference. That is where English rugby league is struggling. I think

it is game management and game understanding which is crucial in

future the element of players, and they shouldn't have to be coached at

this level in game management. The players out there are managing it

very well. 11 sets out of 12 completed from Australia. There is

an efficiency about them but also a flare. And Cameron Smith, is aerobic

capacity and fitness. It is a rare hooker who does the full 80 minutes,

but he does it week after week. He enjoys it. You can see that he

enjoys the game, he enjoys the control and influence he has on the

outcome of games. Tyson Frizzell is on the field, so expect some impact

from him. Taken on by Shannon Boyd, the big fellow. Really big. He

chases wild pigs back home. He is chasing Kiwis here today. Six tackle

coming up. It's marvellous, a masterclass of

rugby league, how to build pressure, the end of sets, just executed to

perfection. That ball is rolling with perfect weight and there is

nothing that Shaun Kenny-Dowall can do except ground the ball. It's

another repeat in Australia. Great field position. -- another repeat

from Australia. Issac Luke, looking for touch. A bit of a lift of

pressure, but he hasn't found it, and he has given Australia some very

cheap yards. Another penalty given away.

Martin to Powell has just been announced as having come on. --

Martin Taupau has just been announced as having come on. And

Greg Eastwood is going to come on as well. Australia are within ten

metres again. A real platform on which to work their magic. Now

Frizzell. The Kiwis clinging on. Frizzell is slow to his feet. Again,

a late call from the referee. It was. I don't think he was holding

him down. A brilliant decision. Look, three scores, 18 points, three

converted tries. 20 points, he's going to score another try. Just

take the two points. It was high, no doubt. Contact with the right arm,

with the head. So they have to give that. As Jonathan rightly point out,

this will make it a four score game. As we said earlier, under Mal

Meninga, the most they conceded was 18 points, last year against

England, but they also scored 36, by the way.

Here is Thurston looking to add another two. And Thurston does add

another two. And Australia now lead, with nearly half an hour played,

20-0. And Mal Meninga will be very pleased. He will give it

eight-and-a-half out of ten until now. There was that period when they

were broken with their off-loads. Apart from that the Green and Golds

have been in total control. It has been a masterclass. First 30 minutes

it has been a masterclass of how to play rugby league.

Before this game began, New Zealand held the mantle as world number one.

It was a title based on the history of the last two or three years, but

Australia will be the new number ones when, if, they win today.

But they are now the dominant nation, without any argument. They

are the dominant nation again. New Zealand have a way to climb to get

back up level with them and England likewise.

-- Frizell. A big, big job to do here.

They will not ease up, the Australians. They have good yardage,

good kicking game. I don't think it is in their nature

to ease up, Jonathan. They will do the same old things, grind the

result out. The Kiwis have to try and get back

in somehow. Look at the different yardage. They are kicking from

within their own half T Australian kickers are kicking on the

opposition 40-metre area or 20-metre area.

It is the first play. Australia's inevitably tends to be between 20-40

metres away from their goal line. Here's Boyd... A ninth try all for

Four Nations we've had. It looks like they will whip their sixth

here. A good run from Dugan and Cronk carries it on.

Thurston is there to take the BA Johnson stops him in his tracks.

Australia covering ground rapidly. Here they come again. Cronk dummies

the inside BA New Zealand are on the ropes.

Dugan might have had the appetite to get there first and get fingertips

on that ball. We say "might" because the referee is going to the video

re. Let's hear from the first time today from per fared Sutton. Pause

it on the foot. Tackle six try. OK, kick chase on the right-hand side is

onside. Stay on this. There's no interference. Can we go with

something slow and continuous from ground level, please? Nice and slow.

See Josh Dugan's hands coming through. The ball has been grounded.

That will be a try. Josh Dugan celebrates. He doesn't

know the decision yet. Now he does. Australian 24-0. Leaders of this

game. Again it is the end of the... They asked enough questions during

the set. Even when Cooper Cronk is tackled, Thurston comes from the

left side, which is where he normally plays to the right, and

puts that kick in. They work so well together. Marvellous break here.

This is down the short side and then there's Dugan to start with.

Off-loads to Cronk on the inside. Thurston is tackled. But later...

Look, from the left to the right side, has Thurston. It is the great

appetite. He wanted to ground that ball more than the New Zealand team

wanted to shepherd it to safety. Watching a dummy run there, to come

in and hold the defence. It is a subtle little kick and the perfect

kick. It was quality, quality finishing. Quality team work.

And he's curled it. Oh, he's hit the post.

24 of 0. Holds the inside defence and then

there's nothing on, except it is the perfect option. If the don't score a

try, they have another repeat. But the kick, Jonathan, he was under

intense pressure and he still executed so well. It was going to

land and in it goes. So New Zealand desperately hoping

they can keep these Green and Golds penned within their own half.

But the history of the last 34 minutes tells us that will be

difficult. Smith, left again. Taken on by Shannon Boyd. Wants to get the

arms free. Cannot do so. Goes down with a ball in hand. Smith is up

there. The Major General in the middle again. A step from Michael

Morgan, who offers impact in a different respect. He's got fleet of

foot, sharp step. There's the fifth. Australia looking

for a good kick on the sixth. He might have been aiming for the

post there. It was caught in goal, anyway. A quick tap restart allowed

or not allowed because the Kiwi players were not all back behind the

ball. You cannot restart. The interpretation is you cannot restart

until all your players are back onside and they weren't. No matter

how disgruntled the crowd are, the referee is right.

And David Kidwell is twitching in his seat. It has not been a glorious

Four Nations from his point of view. One point victory against England

remaining amongst the only highlight so far.

The draw against Scotland a particular low.

Issac Luke gets in there. Where's the magic? There's the pass.

Then the kick in desperation. Johnson is the only kicker. They

close him down straightaway, the Australians have options. That was a

panicked end rather than a structured composed end, which is

what we are seeing from Australia. I agree with you, I think New Zealand

can be disappointing, etc, etc. I don't think we should take anything

away from this Australian. This masterclass of rugby league.

A cautious look at the history books tells you that Australia's biggest

win against New Zealand was 58-0, back in 2007. It might be occupying

our attention as the game goes on. Look at that! What a response,

Inglis and Morgan it was in there quickly.

This time we will get a repeat set by a distance kick from Cameron

Smith. A great chase and getting man-handled by Greg Inglis, who has

picked him up over the ingoal area. -- in-goal area.

Just do everything so, so well. It is Boyd on the catch.

Klemmer with a big return. New Zealand spirits wilting, no doubt.

It is relentless. There is another 40 minutes of this extraordinarily

good Australian performance. Run on hard and it is not quite from

Inglis. Still struggling. The referee is going to have a look

here. He thinks no try on the field, but

it is up to the video referee. Let's hear from Bernard Sutton. . Tackle

three. The ball in his left-hand. He rolls

over the goal line at this point. The ball is still up. Still up,

still up. Keep it moving, please. The ball is still up. Going away

from the ground. OK, keep this moving. Doesn't get

any lower. Is there one more angle from behind? I cannot see anything

near the ground there, Ben. At this point there is still no try.

Keep this playing through. Up at that point. Still up at that point.

And doesn't get any lower. The tackle is now complete. No try, Ben,

going to the board. Tackle three, Greg Inglis plays the ball.

So, no try. They go back ten metres and start

again here with three more tackles to come. Well done there. There was

an element of desperation there to present that and it takes some

preventing when it is Greg Inglis carrying the ball.

Been quiet so far in this game. He just had Inglis dragging down and

lowering his expectations. The crowd got a little excited there. They

could see a bit of fresh air from the New Zealanders there that

quickly closed down and interesting fact about that kick as well.

Normally a right-footed kicker, Cronk. Kicked it with his left foot

that time. Just something different. Lewis Brown on the field in that

dummy halves position at the moment. About five gone. Here comes the

sixth. Looking to create some numbers.

Shannon Boyd has it covered. Can he get out of there? You bet he can.

Three New Zealanders there. They should have started with a drop. But

Shannon Boyd found a way. Marvellous -- but Boyd found a wasmt He sees it

three chases there. The great footwork, evasive skill allows him

back into the field of play and prevents the repeats that Australia

have had time after time. Lewis Brown missed the tackle. A lovely

kick. Cameron Smith is loving every moment

of this. It will not be lost in him that this is in all likelihood his

last game on English soil in an Australian jumper.

Knock-on given. I think that's the first time in

nearly 40 minutes they have gone away from the script there. That's

the first scruffy Australian toned a set. They saw the opportunity and

they had numbers on the right-hand side. Cronk and Thurston had a look

at it. It is is not quite finished the

half. New Zealand have a penalty here.

A lot of people getting out of their seats.

Still a little bit of action to go. They will get one player won't they

from the tap restart. Let's see what they do. Do they put

the ball up to force an error? Do they off-load? Or do they run their

half down? Does redemption begin here? Or is it the inevitable

conclusion we expect? Brought back to the middle.

A bounce into the hands of Tapie. It was Eastwood who tried to kick.

As soon as the first tack sl completed that will be the end of

the -- tackle is completed that will be the end of the first half.

Australia leading 24-0. As a final, no contest. As a demonstration of

high-class rugby league, Australia have no comparison.

That has been a super show from the men in green and gold.

Let's hear from the touchline. How tough a half for you guys?

Obviously disappointing. We come with a game plan. Hopefully

we can come out after half time a better team. How frustrating you had

chances there. We couldn't execute. That is something we talked about.

Like I said, hopefully we can come out a better team. Thank you for

your time. Now let's bring in Greg. You must be thrilled with how

clinical you guys have been? A great quality side. Struck out across the

park. Another 40 to go yet. Do you exp President of the Board of Trade

the message to be Do you expect the message to be the

same? As a team we will be satisfied with that.

Thank you for your time. Well a dominant first-half

performance by Australia. More possession, more territory. New

Zealand having to make 24 more tackles as well. Look at the total

metres at the bottom. Over double made by Australia compared to New

Zealand and your countrymen have been utterly, utterly dominant.

They have. There was a period with New Zealand got with some off-loads.

There was a turning point when New Zealand almost scored.

I thought that was a turning point in the half from the Australia

building pressure and pressure and the score lines ran out. How far

behind have New Zealand looked to you? That is 40 minutes of hurt and

very painful to watch that. Australia came with ruthless

efficiency and brilliant in the way they have prepared and operated in

those first opening 40 minutes. That is one of the team, the spine, with

Smith and Cronk and Boyd, icing on the cake, out the back. Take my hat

off to them. They have turned up and are killing it. It doesn't do a lot

as a final if you are wanting a good game, but you are getting a good

performance. If you want an exhibition of rugby league at the

highest level from Australia, the best ecan say about New Zealand is

Luke is kicking off well. Would have to.

They have compounded themselves. The time that Kurt was talking about in

the game, they bombed one end and Australia came down the other end

and executed it. Since then they have made errors. They have tried to

play their way back into the game in the wrong way. I would like to see

the stat how many times New Zealand have started inside five metres. I

think every time Australia have a yardage set they get past halfway

and an attacking kick which is almost on the money and New Zealand

five metres out of their own line. When England played Australia as

well, they are so good and consistent at making the opposition

start in their own five metres. It is not only what they are doing when

they're attacking with their attacking kicks and the balls in and

out, defensively, in that following set, you are kicking in yardage, be

you find a very busy back field. You don't find any space. Starting the

set on the halfway. Let's look at the first try. They got off to a

great start. Blake Ferguson with this try.

This is homework. Harris has been under the spotlight. He's a back

rower and playing in the halves. Boyd saw that and set off. He uses

pure speed there. The skip out to Ferguson to score in the corner.

That is pure game plan. And the guys in commentary, Jonathan Davis said,

in particular, highlighting throughout the first half Boyd's

influence on timing. He runs that better than anyone in the game. He

knows numbers and which person to get to and got to the sen tler. The

pass was made easy. He would have been licking his lips with that

space and two defenders there. As he said, the game could well have

switched on this play playing. At that stage Australia us had the ball

a good eight minutes. Every day of the week it is a try. It comes to

Johnson and his props on his outside. Maybe should have given him

the first time. The desperate thing here is they got four or five Kiwi

defenders who get back and make the play. The Kiwis execute the next

play and over the line. This is heartbreaking, when you are one pass

away from a try and at the end of the set you are behind with a try

scored against you. That completely took the wind out of their sails? It

does and takes a lot of energy out of your tank. They were about to

score and they have half a dozen forwards and then a try concerted.

It takes a lot out of your team. We look at that play there.

Harris again, once again Boyd has isolated him. Too much space. Harris

is a back rower. He's a back-rower. Off the mark speed, which you have

to have in that defensive position of two men and three men in, he's

been exposed in that position. Let's look at the other two Australian

tries. Merrin and Dugan together. Australia have been dominant. This

is a really... As a defender on your line, you line one your body in

front. He made the decision so easy for Cameron Smith. A great ball by

Cameron Smith, but a poor read or poor concentration. And Gillett on

the outside. He's got too much speed. Flicked past and Dugan. We

talk about Dugan, he's been explosive all year with his strength

and speed and quality. Cronk is nailed down there.

They are relined so quick. Look at Cronk back to the other side of the

field. Making sure they go the right way and make the right decisions.

And the difference between the sides, Australia would have pushed

that extra past pass. They have pushed past as the ball goes

nowhere. Australia patient and constituent. Slowed it down for the

kick. And -- pay sent and consistent. Slowed it down for the

kick. The final kick was pressure. We saw

the worst set the Australians came one a long kick from Cronk. I think

a big part of that there, their worst yardage set but a great kick,

energy-wise on the kick chase. You can do that when you've got the ball

for that long in the first half and you've had a good field position.

New Zealand have dealt with Cooper Cronk's kicks well. They have maybe

dropped one. The point is not whether they catch them or not, it

is where it leaves them. I think for it to start with, the kick has to be

on the money. For Cronk and Smith and Jonathan Thurston, 90% of the

time they are. It is the kick chase as well.

The amount of green jumpers in the frame, that is important. They are

not aggressive in defence when doing their attacking. They are aggressive

defensively. For the viewers, where all these kicks are landing what has

been happening on play one and two is the Kiwis came up with errors.

When Australia get the ball back into this part of the field, they

are in a poor position to pool some more points. Australia, they are

happy to play their sets out. Kick chase, defend that set. Do the same

thing for three, four sets. Building pressure is one thing. What

Australia are doing is psychological warfare. Every opportunity they got

to take two points and can increase the gap between the New Zealand and

Australian team I can promise you, and I will be backed up, as alier

you look at the score board going up and you know you are playing against

the best in the world and you know it can be become a mountain

insurmountable. One thing on the kicking because we were talking

about how important it is and as Brian said for viewers out there,

but for young kids who play rugby league, to concentrate more on the

actual ball and how you kick it than take your eye off and looking to

where you will kick it. I know being a Melbourne Storm player he's done a

lot work with the players. He keeps his head down over the ball. He is

not worried where it will land. He is worried about his contact on the

ball. You look at his head t way he looks over the ball, he's not

worried where it will landch he knows which part of the field it

comes to. That is part of Aussie rules. I know Melbourne Storm have

done a lot of practise with AFL players. Their technique as far as

not worrying about where it will land is a huge part. As far as Shaun

Johnson is concerned, what does he need to do? What do New Zealand need

to do? Ultimately New Zealand need the ball. It has been nothing but

Australia. We are showing after the first try when they get the ball

there is enough power to give them space on the ball. The reality is

they are not getting enough of that. When the New Zealanders have the

ball they have coughed up some. It is an easy and ugly mistake. Given

the ball back to them. Ball retention, need to respect the ball.

Here are a few examples watching Johnson, the amount of balls behind

him and the lack of execution, it is not having the Green and Golds. The

execution is brilliant. He has so many behind him he has to check his

footwork. How aggressive the Australian defence is. They are

cutting down Shaun Johnson's time, everybody times on the ball, so you

cannot make that nice, clean pass. Is he missing Lui? Maybe so. Maybe

take a little bit of pressure, kick pressure off. I think New Zealand as

a whole is missing him. I He works well as a defensive unit

together. I suppose what I mean by that is as well, if you are a coach

or an opposition player you can isolate Johnson a bit more. If you

are looking at Australia, if you isolate Cronk you have others, etc,

etc. We need to see how good the Australians are. That is not like

me. Are you all right? Exactly! Do I need to get you a stiff drink! They

have been clinical. Their passes out in front T way they have exited

their own half. Their attention to detail, to the small things, has

been first class. When you are off your game yourselves, as the Kiwis

are, in that first half, then it is a big hill to climb. It is a

reflection of how good Australia are as well. Australia are making them

off their game. They are that clinical, they are that sharp. As

far as Australia are concerned going into this second half, there'll be

no easing off, will there? They will want to put their feet on the

throats of Australia harder? What has worked is building pressure. New

Zealand have made mistakes on the back of that. They've had some

attacking footy. For New Zealand they need some field possession and

ball. They've had little attacking sets as well. Here at Anfield the

international rugby league number one ranking is on the line in the

tennis. Tonight the number one ranking will be on the line there.

Andy Murray against Novak Djokovic. You can see it all from 6pm. The

winner will end the year as the world number one.

What will they be saying to each other before they come back out, New

Zealand? They will talk about the smaller things. They will talk about

going out there, making sure Australia doesn't get the second

phase. In Australian yardage New Zealand got spread a couple of

times. A respectable, let's not give up any cheap errors and give

Australia field position. Can you send a team out with

damage-limitation for the second half? You can send them out with the

fact we have not reflected our own performance here and do better for

ourselves. We have to go out there and show our worth is more than was

shown in the first time. -- in the first half. It will be, anything can

happen. As we wait for both teams to come out, let's go down to the

touchline. I have a very interested spectator,

how is the foot, will you be ready for the first start of the season? I

had a catch-up with a specialist a week ago. What did you make of the

first half? The Aussies looked dangerous. If the Kiwis could have

got that try in the right-hand corner where Shaun Johnson flicked

out and got the ball, that would have made it more of a contest. They

will be tough to stop second half. Does it make you feel better about

what England did against Australia when you watched this?

I think England didn't play brilliant. Everyone will be putting

a dampener on what we did. They are both quality teams. I think the

Aussies have proved today how good they are.

Thank for your time. Second half on the way, and if it's

anything like the first 40, Australia will be dominant.

Let's get back to your commentary team, John K, Jonathan Davies will

stop sometimes, you have to sit back and admire what is good in sport.

He is very good at his sport. He isn't back in his, but his team are

beating -- are getting beaten heavily. The Australians showing

their class. The question is, do New Zealand have a desire to respond in

this second half, or will it simply be Australia rolling it out again?

We saw a terrific performance from them in the first half. They will

not be taking anything off the pedal in this second period. They will

want to score as many points as possible in a classy a fashion as

possible. Absolutely. We talked about being ruthless in the changing

room, but the first half was a masterclass. They were outstanding,

Australia. New Zealand need to work hard. Their focus needs to perhaps

be on attempting to win this second half. Burstyn looking immediately

for Frizzell to offer an impact. -- Thurston. Australia going for the

kick from Cooper Cronk. Not a real tester for Rapana, but the

Australian defenders quickly running to make sure that it is kept to a

minimum. Such a perfect first half. They will do exactly the same thing.

The case is very good. When opportunities appear, they will try

and take them. The Kiwis need not panic, they've got to try and finish

their sets and do what the Aussies were doing. There is an opportunity

in the second half to get a very good field position. Taken high.

Late in the tackle count, which will be pleasing for New Zealand, because

it will give them a decent field position in which to launch an

attack. Good footwork there, and that's what isolated Klemmer, and

the consequence was a high shot. New Zealand have been here before,

encouraging position, but unable to deliver, and then crumbling. Can

they offer a little more resistance here? Taken on by Proctor, but not

too far. Kenny-Dowall at his heels. Injected to Joseph Tapine, one of

the most promising second row players at the moment, only 22. It's

with Jordan Kahu, bumping off initially Gillett. More where that

came from. Still a couple of tackles to go. A bit loose, but into the

hands of Johnson, so it matters not. On by Tapine again. Final play in

the set. What can New Zealand do? Can they put pressure on the

Kangaroos and at least get another set of six? Boyd finds safety back

in the field of play, and the second attempt in their frustration, New

Zealand, after the tackle was completed, putting him back in stock

what should have been a defensive set, with Australia starting on

their own line, is suddenly a penalty. Let's hear what they were

saying in the dressing room. What was said? David Skidmore said, our

ball control let us down, we need more possession, more control of the

ball, and he needs them to tighten up the defence. Mal Meninga, not

surprisingly, happy with the first half. He says the second half is

about defence. He wanted the first contact, downing them in one. He

wants effort and attitude. Ferguson has a bit of wit, throwing it back,

and Cronk is there to catch. -- a bit of wigs. Fortune favours the

Australians, making their own luck again. Three tackles. Cameron Smith,

sizing things up. Thurston, switching it back for the big

fellow, Greg Inglis. Always a handful. Dealt with. Here is Smith

again. The general in the middle. The accountant, as he is known in

Australia, always calculating. Boyd on the right-hand side, creating

space for himself, as it happens. As he dragged himself over the line?

The referee has a word with the touch judge. It's a try. Is Darius

Boyd going to be given this? It's all down to the video referee again.

Darius Boyd has the ball, tackle five tries. It's on his chest at

this point. Hasn't promoted the ball. This is all momentum, still

momentum. OK, so it's momentum that gets the ball. There is no

promotion. Need to make sure that it did in fact the line. Is this the

best angle, mate? It's off the ground at this point. It's now come

off the ground. It's on the ground again. It's now over the line. Is

that the best angle, Ken? The bottom part of the ball is actually shaded.

Is that the best angle, nothing from side on? It have a look at other

angles. Nice and slow here. The ball is over the line. Hold it there,

please, Ken. Just roll back to back a frame for me. Hold it. Forward

from there. Hold it there please mate. There is insufficient evidence

to overturn the line decision. That will be a try. There is no promotion

of the ball and it definitely get over the goal-line and appears to on

the line. The on field decision is what they go with in the end. Darius

Boyd is given the try. 28-0. Hard to argue against that. Jonathan Davies

called it in the first half. Tohu Harris, defending on the wing.

Really, I question his pace. Darius Boyd, to his outside, and it becomes

a foot race. Although he works hard from the inside, can't do enough to

prevent the ball brushing the whitewash. I'm in agreement that it

was a try, but once again the deficiency was in the case, and

Boyd, smart, kicked him out, two in from the wing, and over it goes.

He's done it again. Stand off, have a go at him, and he's got on the

outside and scored again. A reflection of Australia's

pre-eminence in rugby league, it Darius Boyd's 20th cap here tonight.

He's never been on the losing side. It's great that Ken keeps getting a

mention. We love Bernie Sanders, because he keeps mentioning Ken. Ken

is our match director. -- Bernie Sumner. A long afternoon for those

gentlemen. On we go again, with Johnson with the restart. Australia

bringing it back. Just the start to the second half that New Zealand

didn't want. Cameron Smith goes to the left. A late run by Tyson

Frizzell. Gathered some yards in. Smith waits and collect again, and

again they plough down the blindside.

Taken just below the knees. Has to go back and play it on the point at

which he was tackled. Cronk gets the kick high. A fairly simple catch for

Jordan Kahu, and he's doing a good job of relieving a bit of pressure,

but still very deep in their own half. When they bring the ball from

their own end, Australia, they are often peppered in the New Zealand

right side with Shaun Johnson and, when they get a good ball, and

attacking opportunity, they shifted inevitably to the New Zealand

left-hand side, which is hardest. A reliever for New Zealand. Easy yards

as well. A bit on the short side. Inglis is always an Cronk's

shoulder. Decent position for New Zealand. How

do you fare in the next five tackles? Harris takes it in. Dummy

half is Lewis Brown. Johnson juggles it, but Eastwood takes a hold.

That's a maximum of expectations in that position, really. Brown again.

The crowds are getting behind New Zealand. They'd love to see them

score a try. Step attempted, tackle completed. Two more plays to go. Now

it's Johnson. Johnson into the teeth of the gale, and he can't get out

again. So, with Johnson their main playmaker on the ground, they go on

the sixth tackle and try and run it and off-load, and the risk does not

provide reward. That's the difference. Shaun Johnson is on the

ground. Nobody is there to take responsibility for the kick. They

wanted a repeat set and it didn't happen. Very alert. Once again, the

defence of Australia on their own line not found wanting in any shape

or form. A couple of years ago in Wellington, New Zealand were winners

of the Four Nations. By my reckoning, there are 11 players in

this 17 today who were involved that day, so they have clearly got the

capabilities in their side. I think this tournament more underlines how

Mal Meninga has rebuilt this Australian side and put them right

back on the pinnacle again. They were never far away. Yet an

outstanding coach. He has proved that with Queensland and he has now

started to prove that with the green and gold. With Smith, Cronk and

others coming towards the end of their career, they will take some

beating over the next year. Australia have it back. Easy yards

given to them. Thurston, hurling it left. Inglis, away from the

advancing Rapana. Still carrying it strongly. Rapana has been left on

the ground and injured. Thurston can't will you a pass away.

-- can't really. Edging closer and closer, and Smith is a look around.

He knows there are options right and left. Cronk on the right, the short

ball. New Zealand matching them at the moment, but Australia with

plenty of promise. The Kiwis defending with only 12 men -- ten

men on their line, because Rapana is still injured. Kenny-Dowall didn't

want to take the risk when it looked as though that was going out. I

think he had to play it. He had no idea what was around him. He should

have caught it. Yes, he should. It hard enough defending but, given a

free set... If he catches the ball, landed in goal, a cap 20. It's drop

kick out to Australia. He needed to land it in the goal area and tap on

the 20. As it is, repeat set Australia.

We've got a hold up, because Rapana is still getting treatment. He was

hurt when he tried to tackle Greg Inglis. Just caught the knee of

Inglis. Completely accidental, but it's a defensive technique from

Rapana. He isn't alone in that, Jordan Rapana, getting badly hurt

trying to tackle Greg Inglis. The other Australian centre, Josh Dugan,

had his jaw broken by Greg Inglis in a State of Origin game this year.

Must admit, I've seen smaller centres than him. He isn't looking

great. It's a headache. So Issac Luke comes back on the

field. A bit of reshuffling, with Lewis Brown still out there as well.

So Australia rolling forward again. Boyd. I think we've mentioned this

before, but he was an 11 and a halflb Brady, Shannon Boyd. Not lost

any size down the years. Inglis, held up, ten away from the Kiwi

line. Morgan, a bit of a glare. It's three against two. A pass over

the top from Boyd didn't hit the mark, somehow Ferguson keeps it

alive. Kenny-Dowall will get there. In

terms of international rescue, another drop out underneath the

sticks. Tremendous passage of play, and well

done, Shaun Kenny-Dowall. He had no option but to get rid of the ball,

get it off the dead-ball line. Lots of pressure that time. Forces the

spill. Out it goes, prevents the try. A great passage of play up to

that, just plain what they saw. Some great structure, but also some great

instinct from the Australians. The official crowd here today is just

over 40,000. 24 out of 27 sets completed by

Australia full stop outstanding. And 12 repeat sets as well. It's about

growing pressure, isn't it? Michael Morgan is a coming talent,

isn't he? Mal Meninga gave him his State of Origin debut last year, and

his Australian debut as well. Boyd finding position, 15 away.

Thurston, with a left foot steps. Smith receives. Shannon Boyd,

twisting away. Final play in the set. Smith,

Thurston, back to Cronk, quickly on, taken by Holmes. I don't think he

got it. No try on the field. Great effort though. We have seen some

miracles. Has he done something similar, or is it no try? Let's hear

from Bernard Sumner again. Let's get a frame by frame. The ball is in the

left hand of Valentine Holmes. The right-hand touches the touchline.

Could we get something from the other angle to make sure that is

Valentine Holmes's right-hand? OK, nice and slow here, nice and slow.

That is Valentine Holmes's hand underneath the ball, just lower. We

might go back to the site on shot. Definitely Valentine Holmes's hand.

Frame by frame, and I'm going to get you deport this when his hand

touches the line. OK. -- get you to pause this. He didn't display much,

but it is no try. Not it. Just watching them reorganise themselves,

Cronk and Thurston just piling into position, creating an opportunity on

the left wing. Shaun Kenny-Dowall showed great urgency and pride to

get across there to prevent that try. In the second half, it only

for- Nero, but you sense there are more scores to come. -- it's only

4-0. Another of those monstrous runners,

Solomone Kata, and take stopping at times. Issac Luke looking to exert

its influence from dummy half again. He goes to Bromwich.

Five gone. The next is the sixth. Johnson kicks back towards that

left-hand side. Ferguson is up there, and catches superbly well.

Oh, it's a penalty for New Zealand. That was a good kick.

Good call, Dugan. He went across the wing man. Went across his line of

run. So the correct decision. New Zealand with an opportunity.

Taumalolo. First point of call. Steam roller stopped. Oh, that's an

awful pass. So another penalty for New Zealand.

Here is a test of Australia's defensive pedigree, got a repeat

set, rare for New Zealand, on the Australian line. Great handling.

Great score from Jordan Kahu. And the biggest roar of the afternoon

from 40,000 plus inside Anfield. It barely qualifies as anything to

cheer about, but it was a very good finish. Jordan Kahu deserves it. I

think he's had a good game. There is the penalty. Played at the dummy

half. He did a pretty good job. Hitting the line, and the other

attackers pushing through. It was Kahu who came up with the ball and

crosses wide out. Greg Inglis slipped over, creating a bit of

opportunity on the right-hand side. The off-load to Proctor a brilliant

finish. A repeat set and pressure, doing well. A great roar to greet

the Kiwis as they go back inside their half. A bit of encouragement

supplied for them. Kahu has the kicking

responsibilities as well. 28-4, it remains. Greg Inglis rushes

out to the line. He slips, has to grab the Proctor head.

A really good line that he hit. Good support play from Kahu. Jordan Kahu

has had a good year. Made his debut against England last year. That's

the first time we had a chance to view them over here. At club level

with Brisbane, 15 tries in 20 appearances this last year.

Australia are keen not to give too many cheap yards away.

Great carry, good off-load, spun away. Now Johnson creating a bit of

an overlap. They couldn't when Proctor is nailed by Thurston. Good

defence by Thurston. Taumalolo trying to build up his own momentum.

Issac Luke to Johnson, Johnson high. They are trying to isolate Ferguson.

Ferguson, a good take of the ball. It would be a lot better if they

went to the other wing. Ferguson is a very tall winger, very good in the

air. You don't put pressure on, he will take those all day. Two tackle

already gone, that tackle at the ten, and that's similar to what

Australia were doing in the first half. They are challenging the

opposition to clear their goal-line. We are seeing a response from New

Zealand. Inglis with a great break, and then be passed to Valentine

Holmes. -- and then the pass. Boyd goes behind Cooper Cronk, who still

chases it. He knows the exact Anfield, he tries some soccer

skills, he isn't very good. A penalty has been given for

Australia, and it's all getting a little bit red-blooded in the

middle. I think Josh Dugan put his feet up. We will have to see if it

was intentional. Josh Dugan just running into the feet. I think it

was Kata. He can't do that. No. Dugan not enamoured by that

reaction. A bit of a slam dunk. Evil in those eyes, wasn't there.

Just be responsible. Making contact. Putting the legs out. We don't want

it to escalate. The penalty will go against your team. No complaints. As

seen by everybody in the stadium. The only complaint the Australians

have is that they didn't finish it. Sloppy. You feel that their high

standards have just dipped a little as they are comfortable and they

have won the game. Aaron Woods. Ten metres away. Smith, Cronk. Good play

by Harris. Smith and Woods. A couple of plays still to go, Australia.

Interestingly poised. Into the line comes Morgan. Inglis with a big

carry. Johnson did well. The kick goes very sideways and Dugan knocks

it backwards. It's picked up by Gillett, keeping it alive. Cronk. To

the ground. It hit Taumalolo. It's getting feisty again. Leave the

ball, please. Jason Taumalolo and Cooper Cronk were joint players of

the year in Australia. There is a little fight going on as to who

should keep the trophy, perhaps. Harris. Very much in that second row

position now. Kenny-Dowall. Up and just beyond the halfway line.

Now it's with Issac Luke. Grabbed by Matt Scott. Good play of the ball.

He knew what he was doing, Issac Luke. As soon as Scott grabbed him,

penalty. So Johnson finds position. New Zealand just getting a little

flutter of enthusiasm here. There might be some possibilities to be

earned from this game before it's finished. Jesse Bromwich just fired

it forward again. A big, chucking effort.

A good tackle. But contact from Matt Scott. They got in there. Shoulders

made-to-measure. Now it comes to Kenny-Dowall.

Out came Gillett, like a heat-seeking missile, to pour his

man down. --: his man down. He hits and advancing Australian.

The referee says, what here? More pressure. A maul for New Zealand to

take on here. It's offside, isn't it? Definitely played that.

40,042 the official crowd. A good atmosphere. Certainly in the second

half when New Zealand have found a bit of energy.

Harris with a feed. Johnson brings it to this right-hand side. On comes

Five away, New Zealand in decent position. It is slow. Now it is

played. Issac Luke goes left and decides it is not happening there.

It is Blair t dummy half this time. Caught in the air by... Caught in

the air now. Another penalty for New Zealand.

Frizell, I think, flocked on... There might be an issue there. Yes.

We've got to clean that up. I appreciate that.

Got to clean up. Thanks Cameron. Which one is the ref! ?

Plays for club, state and country, Cameron Smith.

Proctor goes close for New Zealand. An excellent opportunity for the

Kiwis to re-establish some pride here. Taken on by Bromwich. Gathered

in, but squeezes his way out of the clutches of Morgan. More come in

green and gold. Put him on his back. New Zealand, with taum taum, driving

it in -- with Taumalolo, driving it in again.

Bromwich held up again just short. They don't want to give anything

away this side in green and gold. Kiwis desperate to get over there.

Johnson skipping in. Helped on its way by Lewis Brown.

Into touch, not into the hands of his team-mate. Decision making was

excellent when New Zealand had ball in hand. He noticed, Greg Inglis,

they had three on two. He put the skill under pressure. His wingman

followed him, putting the skill under pressure again. The ball ended

up over the sidelines. A great defensive effort from both wingman,

Valentine Holmes and centre, Greg Inglis.

Australia have been reduced to just one try this second half, Darius

Boyd after the break. The Kiwis have played with pride and

passion. They have given away another try here. It will mean this

set will occupy a great deal of their own territory.

A lot of penalties conceded in the last ten minutes or so. I think on

the bounce as the referee pointed out to Cameron Smith They are

clinical as well. Under pressure in their own 20 metres. It is up to the

referee then to referee it and use the cards. They giving the penalty

away because they trust... Here we go. Cronk running wide. How much

Kiwis are back. Dugan keeps it in play.

Good on them. Well done the Kiwis there. A great scramble. Shows the

pride in the shirt there. Smith to Scott, who just slides in

there, using his bulk. Making his presence felt. Australia,

with Smith again. Now it is with Merrin. Merrin flicks away. Smith,

underneath the arms of Proctor and Thurston. Going to be wrapped up by

plenty of enthusiastic defenders again.

Here's Cordner. Smith cannot see what he wanted, so takes the

tackment. This is the last -- tackle. So this

is the last. Dugan flicks it back inside. It

should be Blair's and is. Harris has lost the ball. Went

backwards. And Bromwich... Surge and an urge.

Taumalolo to his left. Going further left.

I am certain David Kidwell will be pleased with the second-half

response from his team. Taumalolo a wonderful run by him. A

mixture of stepping and size and power. He gets the penalty. On the

fifth tackle as well. Again very, very clinical. I think, should be a

yellow card that. It should be a yellow card. Cronk should be in the

bin. He's warned Cameron Smith of penalties. So Blair, Adam Blair sets

the position. Issac Luke, who seems to be troubled, hobbling a little.

Away from Thurston. Meets his match, does he in Cordner. A dancing...

Might just have claimed his second of the game and the kiwi's second of

the game. Again we need it to be certain. Again we go to the video

referee, Bernard Sutton. VIDEO

REFEREE: He's entitled to promote the ball. The ball is off the

ground. No double movement involved. Keep this moving. Keep it moving.

Still has possession, still has possession and, keep it moving,

please, Ken. Keep it moving, mate. Don't freeze it.

OK, is there another angle on that? Make this continuous, please. OK,

can we go back to the front-on angle? Is this your best shot? OK,

keep it going. Keep it going. Not frame by frame,

move it forward. And pause it now. OK, that will be a try then. Going

to the board. So the Kiwis find themselves one.

They have scored three more and convert all three if this is

converted to put Australia under pressure. Stayed right. Very

straight. 28-10. But we are seeing some real spirit

and fight from the Kiwi nz the second half. A very good finish as

well. And again good speed. It is the off-load. There's a lovely

off-load. And Thurston spins out of the tackle. Good finish.

28-8, Australia lead. I am certain they will be certain

with the response of their team in this second half. It is 8-4, to look

from half time and they have certainly played a lot better. Been

assisted by a fair few penalties. Australia comes here, I believe the

penalty count is 12-7 to New Zealand. They have taken advantage

of it and defensively again, Dave, they have worked at it to keep this

Australian team out. So a great response from the half time debrief.

They are playing withvy bransy now, New -- with vibrancy, aren't they

now New Zealand. That turning point when New Zealand were on top and

nearly got across the whitewash and instead they spilt the ball, the

ball went the other end and Australia scored the try. That was a

massive turning point. If they had not scored, if and buts a and thaw,

but having a different con-- and all that. But having a different contest

here. Mistakes will happen as well. Thurston into the line. In comes

Cordner. Inside it goes to Thurston again.

Cameron Smith offering it. Merrin... He's a worker, isn't he? A labourer!

I have been impressed with him in this tournament. Really have. Cronk

again. Great defence. Kata, I think that was, who got in

the face of Darius Boyd. Cooper Cronk will chip it high.

Inglis's big arms get up there. New Zealand survive. That left edge

defence of New Zealand are bet ther second half. Whether wl they change

half time, they have rushed, tried to make decisions on the back and

rushed them. There we see the knock-on. I don't know if it came

off the leg. But never mind, let's get on with it.

You can see there was an intent there from New Zealand to play some

football inside their own 10-metre line.

Kata to his left, not interested in support player, is Harris. Now it

comes with Bromwich. Bromwich with a little subtle step.

Bromwich has had a good game today. Johnson, Proctor...

On his way to Gold Coast next season is Kevin Proctor, having spent quite

a bit of time at Melbourne Storm. Leaps well. It will be a penalty.

Inevitably. That just wasn't smart, that. It was

a good kick, but needed to let him land before he went in with the

shoulder there. Very polite or not very smart.

Taken it in the air. No need... Let him land and then jam him with the

shoulder. He copped one as well on the chin, didn't he?

Australia, back towards the halfway line. Wanting to finish with a

flourish here. Seven minutes to go. Seven minutes of the season

remaining. It's been a memorable season. So many, for so many

reasons. Wigan through adversity winning the

Grand Final here. That wonderful Challenge Cup story that Hull FC

have penned this season as well. So many reasons to remember this

season. But we are belatedly going to be taking our hats off to this

Australian side who anyonish off in style.

-- who finish off in style. Last play. Where does it go? Smith to

Thurston. Her comes Boyd. Never any doubts really from kick-off, but

Australia are going to be crowned Four Nations winners, 2016. It is a

brilliant angle from the second rower. Watch who it comes off. Hits

centre field on the right-hand side and Thurston on the right-hand side.

It depends where they see the weakness. He comes in to create the

overlap. The take and the penalty. This is the finish. Cronk on the

right. Thurston what a ball. Australia were annoyed they were not

winning the second half. All of a sudden they said, hey, we will level

it and hope that Thurston can claim the second half for them. That was a

well executed play there. Well, it flies alone at Anfield the

Australian flag. And they have come through a few

storms. Not many. They have painted their own golden skies, haven't

they. Thurston with a kick. 32-8, as it stands.

Jonathan Thurston looking to add another two points to his Test match

tally and he does. 34-8. Australia lead.

Once again, the pre-eminent international rugby league nation.

Thurston takes it to the line. It is a real aggressive line on the inside

shoulder. Over he goes. Crashes over the whitewash. A real good try.

I am sure Mal Meninga will feel job done with some style. Especially

that first half. Four-and-a-half minutes to go. There might be more

fireworks to come yet. Australia will not be content to finish there.

They would love to get it to the 40-point mark.

Looking for more holes in the kiwi's resolve in final few moments.

They are running the clock down now, aren't they?

And Mal Meninga, not long in the job now, is he? Only took over as head

coach of Australia this year. Unbeaten, a winning coach every time

they have taken to the field and impressive winners every time they

have take on the the field. Australia have been the best team in

this Four Nations by some distance, in all honesty and the challenge to

both the Kiwis and the English team is to improve considerably in the

next 12 months to challenge them with the World Cup.

We cannot forget to mention Scotland, the role they've played in

this Four Nations because they of course, to remind you, become the

first outside the top three to take a point off one of the top three

with that glorious performance last week against this New Zealand side.

New Zealand are in an attacking position here.

That sums up an afternoon for those in black shirts.

That's one thing, it has not been executed well enough, I think

because they have checked the run of the guy receiving the pass, a lot of

shoulder passes. Risk and reward and took the risk.

And the team got their reward. In the tackle count, over the side-line

it went. So less than two minutes to go and

David Kidwell, another one who is new to the job, he was not expecting

it, of course. That's a good pass. The best pass

Eastwood has had all afternoon. They will be happy to put their feet

up after a very long season. Johnson, a big dummy from him and he

skips back the other way. This is Blair, whose pass was not forward.

The referee says, carry on. Johnson is going to run it.

Skipping, drops it back. Eastwood drops it back to Taumalolo.

Now with Issac Luke. It's basketball they are playing at the moment, not

rugby league! Another set of six here for New

Zealand. They are entertaining to the last.

Issac Luke takes it in. That is the last though, and for all that flare

and enterprise in the last few seconds it comes to all in the final

reckoning. It is Australia who are back to top spot in world rugby

league. It is official now. We knew it before, anyway, but they are

world champions. World number one and a Four Nations winners. Too

good. They have been so efficient with great leadership and great game

management. Thoroughly deserve number one in the world n this

competition. They will take some beating in next year's World Cup.

They will and that first half was an outstanding example of how to play.

That was a really outstanding first half. Australia posted 24-0 and

deserved Four Nations champions and deserved number one in the world.

38-8. Darius Boyd keeping up his impressive record. 22 caps. Never on

a losing side. Cameron Smith, is this the last we

see of him on English soil in an Aussie shirt? He will go around next

year, so long as he keeps his health, he will go around next year.

What a great expo nent of the game he remains, one of the best number

nines there have been. So, let's hear I think from the Man

of the Match, Darius Boyd. Congratulations. Man of the Match.

How special to win the Four Nations? Definitely. We said at the start we

wanted to get the world ranking back. A pleasure to play in front of

Liverpool. Mal Meninga has been playing down that number one spot.

Clearly you guys wanted it back big time? . Definitely. We wanted it

back. We have trained hard all year. We've had a lot of blokes. How much

of a pleasure is to play as a group you lot? You look like a well-oiled

machine? We've had fun and trained hard. Mel and the coaching staff

have help us. It has brought a lot of pride back. For a while we had a

few losses with the Australian team. We upped our standards. It is a

pleasure to win all games this year and go home with the trophy. Many

congratulations. Let's bring in your captain, Cameron Smith. You are back

to number one in the world. Sound good? Yeah. That is fantastic. It

with us a goal of ours at the start of the year. We knew it would take a

lot of hard work. The boys, we have transformed a few things throughout

the team and the way we go about our football and I think it's just been

a nice change with Mel bringing different things around the team and

new players on board. So, I think we are undefeated throughout this whole

season, which is great. When you say you have transformed things, you

have always looked good. What have you transformed? A bit of the

outlook on where we want the Kangaroos to be. The Jersey and what

it means to the players playing in it and who actually we are

representing. So, yeah, the older boys, we've always had a lot of

pride in the Jersey. It is great to see all the young boys cherishing

the international game and seeing the Kangaroos Jersey as the pinnacle

of rugby league. How much do you feel you are building and looking

forward to that World Cup and building on that? It is nice to

finish Four Nations champions. We've not had it for a few years now.