Ireland: Fantastic experience to play in PNG

“It was a fantastic experience to play in PNG,” says Ireland captain Liam Finn.

“I’d recommend it to anyone who plays rugby league around the world. If you get the chance to come and play here, take it with two hands because the people here are absolutely magnificent.”

On the game, Finn said the win was there for the taking.

“We didn’t execute particularly well with all the field possession. We had our opportunities there to win the game.

“But we got exactly what we expected. It was tough, physical. We got exactly what we knew we were coming for. In terms of the game, we were disappointed not to get the result.

“I don’t think they expected what they got from us. They would have been really relieved to get away with the win."

The Wolfhounds will take on Wales this Sunday at Perth Rectangular Stadium, Australia.

Ireland coach Mark Aston said: “We’re a bit deflated at the moment.

“Sometimes in life, you get what you want, sometimes in life you don’t.

“Going forward, I think we’ve earned a lot of respect as a group. We came out here in the back garden of the Kumuls and pushed them right to the limit.

“I’m immensely proud of my group.” 

Author: 
Troy Taule