Tino Fa’asuamaleaui defends Australian forwards ahead of World Cup final
The Kangaroos front-rower says criticism of the pack has been disrespectful as Australia prepare to face New Zealand again.
Tino Fa’asuamaleaui has rejected claims that New Zealand’s forwards outplayed Australia’s pack in their World Cup opener, pointing to the Kangaroos’ 24-22 victory ahead of a rematch in the final.
New Zealand held the territorial advantage and their forwards gained more metres in the opening encounter, but Australia scored three tries from long range. Fa’asuamaleaui said the Kangaroos had acknowledged they needed to improve, while remaining proud of their defensive effort and ability to create opportunities.
Coach Trent Robinson had argued Australia were outmuscled by both New Zealand and Fiji. Luke Keary also questioned whether the pack could withstand Samoa or Tonga following the Kangaroos’ 36-22 group-stage victory over Fiji.
Australia subsequently beat Samoa 44-12 in the semi-final. Fa’asuamaleaui said he accepted that the Kangaroos should face tough scrutiny, but believed some criticism had been disrespectful and had overshadowed their win against New Zealand.
The Queensland front-rower also revealed he cried during the Australian and Samoan anthems before the semi-final. He had considered playing for Samoa in recognition of his late father’s heritage before choosing Australia again. Fa’asuamaleaui said he felt both admiration and excitement during Samoa’s Siva Tau, when he faced Brian To’o and their heads touched.
