World Cup 2000

Match Report

by CRAIG MURRAY

The Welsh dragon flies high tonight after a record World Cup Win, 38-6 over the spirited Cook Islanders. The inflated score line is misleading, and the Cooks can be very proud after one of the most amazing first half displays, epitomising the World Cup. No one had given the Cooks a glimmer of hope of making the top three in the group, let alone qualifying but that didn't stop them.

Led by Kevin Iro, the Cook Islands, comprising of many natives who play their trade in New Zealand, refused to die despite allowing Wales an early six point lead, the awesome Lee Briers going in near the posts. The only other score of the half came from Karl Temata in the corner after good work from the experienced Iro. Crucially, the Cook Islands missed a penalty attempt, and, showing their naivety, spurned an easy two points inside Wales 10. Despite pressure at the end from the Welsh, the Islanders held on for 6 all at half time, stunning the vociferous Welsh crowd, who seemed appreciative of both teams.

Yet all good things must end sooner or later, and it was sooner for the Cook Islands. The second half allowed Wales to show their class. They crossed for five tries in thirty two minutes as the Islanders tired in the wet conditions. Kris Tassell grabbed a hat trick. The Australian with Welsh heritage was impressive in a back line that never lived up to expectations. Other comprehensive scores from Jenkins and Cunningham inflated the score line far beyond it deserved to be.

The Cook Islands now move onto New Zealand, aware of the huge task that lies ahead. They will have hope of containing the Kiwis early on though. Wales now face Lebanon at Lianelli in what now seems an easy game. The formidable trio of Cunningham, Briers and Harris should easily dominate the one man Lebanese.

Zane Clarke was by far the best for the Cook Islands. The hooker had a terrific game, and with some work on his fitness, he was anonymous in the second half, he would be a tremendous acquisition for any club without an up and coming hooker. Wales' best was Lee Briers, who provided deft touches at the end for one of the tries of the tournament as he mesmerised a startled Cook Islands defence into submission. The Welsh will have been encouraged by a 5,000 plus passionate crowd, exceptional given the conditions.

Source: WalesRL.co.uk