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Kearney looks to build on victory
STEPHEN KEARNEY wasted little time in beginning his preparations for further international success after seeing his New Zealand team clinch the country's first World Cup success with a 34-20 victory over Australia.
Kearney, who only took on the role earlier this year following the dismissal of Gary Kemble in the aftermath of the Kiwis' 3-0 series defeat by Great Britain, could not stop himself looking forward to next season's Four Nations Championship in Europe.
"The game back home was in a bit of a state this time last year and some tough decisions had to be made," he said. "I'm just very pleased for the game back in New Zealand.
"As we left the pitch I spoke to (assistant coach) Ruben Wiki about what we need to do right for next year.
"This is a wonderful achievement but I want to be able to back it up next year with a really competitive side. It's important that we continue to go forward as a team."
The former Hull second row was reflective rather than euphoric after the most significant day in the history of rugby league in New Zealand – "I am just a bit numb" – but paid tribute to the fans who had turned out in record numbers throughout the tournament.
"To get 50,000 people here tonight shows that Queenslanders are true rugby league people while the fans who have come from England have been wonderful," he said.
"The final was a wonderful occasion and a credit to the way the whole tournament has been run."
New Zealand captain Nathan Cayless said the magnitude of the achievement would take some time to sink in.
"It's just unbelievable," he said. "The boys did exceptionally well and I'm really proud of all of them. They deserve this success.
"The theme for us in this whole tournament has been 'No regrets' and there certainly aren't any regrets now.
"Everyone involved with this team has worked hard and no-one can take away from us what we have achieved today," he added.
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Saturday 11 February 2012
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