Australia Half-back Cooper Cronk Excited To Reach World Cup Semi-Finals

Australia Half-back Cooper Cronk Excited To Reach World Cup Semi-Finals
14:14, 17 Nov 2017

Australia were in rampant mood as they booked their place in the semi-final of the Rugby League World Cup with a 46-0 demolition of Samoa.

Valentine Holmes scored five tries - a World Cup record - and the competition favourites will play the winner of New Zealand v Fiji.

Kangaroos half-back Cooper Cronk said: "It was probably our best performance of the tournament so far.

"We are trying to find some consistency as the tournament reaches the later stages. I think we are in a good position. The test now will be to recover in time for what will be a massive semi-final at the Suncorp Stadium.

"No matter what the opposition is we try to show them the utmost respect. No matter who we play, you need to roll up your sleeves, sing the national anthem with pride" 

England welcome Sam Burgess back into the fold for the quarter-final.

“He is an important player and an important character in camp as well,” said England halfback Luke Gale. “We’ve missed him in training and we’re looking forward to having him back. He’s a great player.  

“I think PNG have been outstanding so far this tournament,” the playmaker said.

“They’ve been good to watch and they’re a physical side. We’re expecting a big challenge. When you play the islanders they’re all big, physical men and it will be a test. But our boys are ready and I’m looking forward to the encounter.”

It was a huge disappointment for Samoa who have failed to impress in this competition as many expected them to. On Saturday in the remaining quarter-finals, Tonga play Lebanon in Christchurch and New Zealand take on Fiji in Wellington. The final four will be completed on Sunday in Melbourne when England face Papua New Guinea.

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