Jillaroos to face New Zealand in women’s Rugby League World Cup final

STEPH Hancock has warned that the hard work has only just begun after the Jillaroos smashed their way into a World Cup final showdown with New Zealand.

Isabelle Kelly celebrates a try with her Jillaroos teammates.

JILLAROOS veteran Steph Hancock has warned that the hard work has only just begun after the Australian side smashed their way into a World Cup final showdown with New Zealand.

The Jillaroos dominated Canada in their semi-final clash in Sydney, running away with a 58-6 victory to bring them one step closer to retaining the World Cup title.

Just four days after they beat the Ravens 88-0 in a record-breaking effort, the Australian women put in yet another commanding performance to secure themselves the win.

But co-captain Hancock, who bagged a double in the Jillaroos’ victory, says the squad have to be prepared to go to a whole new level on Saturday against the Kiwi Ferns.

The New Zealand side smashed England 52-4 to also qualify for the final yesterday — in what will be their fifth straight appearance in the World Cup decider — and Hancock knows they will be a force to be reckoned with.

“It’s going to be one of the most physical games of footy that I’ve played in a very long time,” Hancock said.

Steph Hancock scores a try for the Jillaroos in their semi-final clash with Canada.

“It’s a lot harder (than previous years). The game is quicker and everyone’s a lot fitter. You know to expect it’s going to be the bloody toughest game you’ve played in a long time.

“That’s the focus of the week … to prepare the young ones mentally for what’s ahead.

“The leadership group will come together this week and talk to the young ones. Physically we might have it, but mentally you have to have it as well.”

Isabelle Kelly celebrates a try with her Jillaroos teammates.

Before the Jillaroos’ 2013 World Cup victory, the New Zealand side had won the tournament on the three previous occasions.

The Ferns have also only conceded eight points across this year’s tournament, which proves they will be the toughest competition yet for the dominant Jillaroos.

However, there will certainly be an emotional aspect to Saturday’s showdown at Suncorp Stadium, with the Australians to also farewell Hancock and fellow Queensland great Renae Kunst from the game.

The pair are retiring from rugby league and both hope to be named for one final game in the green and gold.

Nakia Davis-Welsh gets in the clear for Australia against Canada.

While Kunst was rested from Sunday’s match, Hancock said they still shared a special moment after the final whistle.

“We just hope we’re playing footy together next week,” she said of her best friend and teammate.

“We had a little moment, a little cuddle and got emotional and had to walk away from each other.”

The only injury concern out of Sunday’s clash was with star forward Kezie Apps, who was taken off with five minutes remaining due to a problem with her left wrist.

However, it is understood she just copped a knock to the area and should be fine for Saturday’s final.

AUSTRALIA 58 (Isabelle Kelly 2, Karina Brown 2, Ali Brigginshaw 2, Steph Hancock 2, Talesha Quinn, Ruan Sims, Nakia Davis-Welsh tries; Caitlin Moran 7 goals) def CANADA 6 (Natasha Smith try; Irene Patrinos 1 goal)

Originally published as Jillaroos to face New Zealand in women’s Rugby League World Cup final