Rugby League: Kearney - We didn't match their intensity

Liam Farrell of England tackles Tohu Harris. Photo / Getty

It must have been an unusual experience for Stephen Kearney as he faced the media after the Kiwis 26-12 loss to England today.

For the first time in 18 months he had to face questions about a Kiwis defeat, and the answers were unfortunately quite straightforward.

Not since the 2014 Anzac test have the Kiwis lost a test match, and you would have to go back to the 2013 World Cup final to find a match where the New Zealand forward pack was significantly bettered.

For Kearney, it was simply down to intensity. One team had it, especially in the second half, the other lost it for long periods.

"We didn't match their intensity in the second half," said Kearney. "We didn't match it effectively [and] we made it really hard for ourselves."

It was a rare sight, seeing the Kiwis pack going backwards as England completely dominated in the second half. From a promising 10-0 after 15 minutes, the Kiwis struggled to compete in the final 50 minutes of the match as England monopolized field position and territory.

"England were very impressive in their defensive effort and forced us into errors that we weren't making in the first 30 minutes," said Kearney. "They put a lot of pressure on us and we made mistakes... we need to adjust to that."

On a positive note, Kearney was happy with the opening period of the match, where the Kiwis played with verve and vigour, scored two tries and threatened a few more.

"In the first 30 minutes they were fantastic and showed what they can offer. But the overall effort wasn't good enough," said Kearney.

Kearney also refused to attach much importance to the Jordan Kahu no-try decision in the latter stages of the first half, which looked a turning point as England scored soon afterwards and a potential 16-6 lead became a 12-12 situation
"We had 40 minutes in the second half to rectify that," said Kearney. "We had [time] to turn that around."

The Kiwis had six days to rediscover their best form, before they face a buoyant England side at the Olympic Stadium on Saturday (Sunday NZT).

"I know the talent is there it is just about making sure we improve and play to our potential," said Kearney. "If we do that we give ourselves a great chance... the challenge is on for us next week."

By Michael Burgess in Hull

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