Australia’s rock solid defence again the highlight in 46-0 win over Samoa

AUSTRALIA have rampaged through the World Cup but their rock solid defence will be the highlight for coach Mal Meninga ahead of the semi-finals.

DARWIN, AUSTRALIA - NOVEMBER 17: Josh Papali of Samoa is tackled during the 2017 Rugby League World Cup Quarter Final match between Australia and Samoa at Darwin Stadium on November 17, 2017 in Darwin, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

THIS is what Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga wanted to see ahead of Australia’s probable World Cup semi final clash against New Zealand.

While Australia’s defence has been resolute for the tournament, their attack has been clunky at best. But their eight try romp against Samoa has set themselves up nicely for the business end of the tournament.

It had been an area for concern for those within the Kangaroos camp. The lack of fluency had been blamed on their player rotation and match officials allowing opposition teams to stifle the Kangaroos attack.

Australia held their opposition scoreless for the second week in a row.

Cooper Cronk had his best game of the tournament at halfback while his combination with Billy Slater and Cameron Smith proved unstoppable.

Meninga has tinkered with his bench rotation during this tournament and leading into the match he said he was open to making more changes. But after beating Samoa he has surely found his best rotation.

Traditionally Meninga has opted for just one genuine prop off the interchange bench, but the Aaron Woods/David Klemmer and Jordan McLean/ Reagan Campbell-Gillard rotation is proving impossible for the opposition players to stop. The rookie props have continued the platform set by the starting combination of Woods and Klemmer.

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Wade Graham’s versatility allows for Australia’s edge back-rowers to also spend time on the sidelines — a luxury they have not had in the past. Australia will travel to Brisbane today to prepare for their semi-final clash against either New Zealand or Fiji.

The Kiwis are no certainties to overcome a spirited Bati side in New Zealand later today. But should the Kiwis get through, the match-up will be a replay of the past three World Cup finals.

Australia always looked a class above.

The Kangaroos should have little trouble overcoming a Kiwis side they have beaten on the past five occasions including earlier this year.

Which sets up the potential for a Wayne Bennett-coached England or giant topping Tonga in the final.

Originally published as Australia’s rock solid defence again the highlight in 46-0 win over Samoa