Northern Union 18, All Golds 25: Outstanding Burgess on verge of Test debut
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.On a night designed to celebrate the oldest relationship in international rugby league, one of the youngest players on the pitch played himself to the brink of a first full Test cap.
Bradford's 18-year-old forward, Sam Burgess, was the stand-out performer for a British side playing under the banner of 100 years ago when a Kiwi side first came to Britain.
Some powerful runs, skilful off-loads and rigorous defence caught the eye – especially the eye of the new Great Britain coach, Tony Smith.
Another to enhance his claim was his Bulls team-mate, Michael Platt, who, apart from problems with his footing on the dewy Warrington turf, gave an assured display at full-back.
Danny McGuire scored two handsome tries without really settling the question of whether he or Leon Pryce is the better bet at stand-off for Saturday's first Test at Huddersfield.
If the British effort was all about the implications for the immediate future, the New Zealanders, on a night of nostalgia, were largely about echoes of the recent past.
Two of their giants, Ruben Wiki and Nigel Vagana, had come out of international retirement for this, whilst the great Stacey Jones was playing his final game of any sort. The little general bowed out with a typically clever performance, kicking immaculately apart from missing two cracks at a two-point drop goal, and setting up the game's final try with a lovely reverse pass to Clinton Toopi.
Of the new generation, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Epalahame Lauaki and Chase Stanley, whose names might not be familiar here yet, could cause trouble over the next few weeks.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments