Wallaroos motivated to back up breakout wins on home soil against Canada

Wed, May 8, 2024, 1:29 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
Head Coach Jo Yapp talks with the media after the announcement of the Wallaroos squad for the Pacific Four Series

Wallaroos backrower Siokapesi Palu believes Canada will be a true test of where their top four World Ranking aspirations lie as they begin their Test season.

The Wallaroos sit fifth after strong wins over Wales and France, with a sizeable points gap to the fourth-place Canadians.

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Canada is coming off a 50-7 win over the USA in April, defeating the Wallaroos 45-7 in the previous match-up in July.

However, Palu is confident the side has grown significantly since that match-up under new coach Jo Yapp.

“We want to build the momentum we had last year," Palu said to reporters.

“I think with the coaching staff and squad, we hope we can pick up from where we left off and if not, start that new slate and move forward.

“…It’s a change of attitude and approach. We can’t expect something different if we continue to do the same thing.

“It seems a lot faster and more exciting (in camp), away from the structured game we’d play.

“(Canada) really fast and disinclined, we need to make sure that we play our game. They’re a top team for a reason and in order for us to get there, we need to do something a little different."

There are nine debutants in the 30-player squad, guaranteeing new faces when Yapp names her first side on Thursday for the opening Pacific Four game for the Australians.

“It’s exciting. There are good vibes and connections between the younger and senior players. I cam in with the curiosity around what the dynamic of the group would be but it’s really positive," Palu notes.

“It’s been a welcoming pack (for the younger players) but I think what allows that is the environment that we’re in. It’s a clean slate so everyone is trying to put their best foot forward.

“The senior players are trying to help the junior players feel welcome.”

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