Kear fancies Wales’ chances

Wales Head Coach John Kear has said he is ‘quietly confident’ Wales can qualify for the Quarter Finals of the Rugby League World Cup.

The Welsh were drawn against Tonga, Papua New Guinea and the Cook Islands, in the draw that was conducted last week.

On paper, it is certainly the hardest group to predict, but Kear was in confident mood.

When asked about the draw, he said: “I’m really pleased to tell you the truth. I know they are three southern hemisphere sides, and three very physical sides.

“You can also argue they have themselves a lot of good, especially Tonga and Papua New Guinea for beating Great Britain.

“But playing Papua New Guinea in Papua New Guinea is a lot different to playing them in England, which is on our doorstep as a Welsh team.

“I’m quietly confident we can secure a first win for a Welsh side at the World Cup proper since 2000. Should we do that, then I’m confident we can qualify for the Quarter Finals.

“I am looking at this tournament with a great deal of anticipation. “