Kiwis will rise above struggles and handle Kangaroos with confidence

Kiwis halfback Shaun Johnson on his way to scoring his spectacular try during the Four Nations rugby league final against the Kangaroos last year. Photo / Mark Mitchell

Tonight's Anzac test provides the Kiwis with the chance to dispel some long held myths about their ability to prepare for and handle these one-off early season encounters against the Kangaroos.

For many years now - and throughout this week's test build up - a lot of commentary has centred on New Zealand's supposed struggles in preparing for the April test but I think those concerns can be put to rest now.

The Kiwis now have real stability and consistency in their selections and preparation and have systems and playing structures firmly in place that the bulk of the squad are well acquainted with.

That old excuse that they need time to come together and gel just doesn't hold up anymore.

The players have confidence in each other to do their individual roles and know they can compete well against the Kangaroos, and last year's Four Nations success has helped solidify their belief.

That self-assurance will help them overcome what has been a short and disrupted preparation. The Kiwis might have only managed one or two full team trainings but coach Stephen Kearney has done well in recent years to prepare his side and get them focused on their performance.

Their mental preparation will be crucial as they face up to an experienced Australian team with a strong core group of players that have played together for many years and know how to win.

This Kangaroos outfit has been described as Dad's Army by some sections of the media, with several players supposedly nearing the end of their careers, but they remain as dangerous as ever and certainly cannot be taken lightly.

They have brilliant players in key positions and will be well prepared and hungry to win after losing to the Kiwis twice in the space of three weeks last October.

Although they remain the No1 side in the world, the Kangaroos remain vulnerable because of the growth and self-belief in the Kiwis' ranks.

And while New Zealand have every right to back themselves after last year's triumph, this is another test match and they need to start over and work hard to claim another win at Suncorp Stadium.

The Kangaroos realise if they can't dominate or match the Kiwis up mfront they will be in for a tough night.

It's time to see the Kiwis front up and produce their best and put some old excuses to bed.