Video: Hardaker adamant England will get it right for decider against the Kiwis

The Leeds Rhinos full-back was left helpless as the improved Kiwis edged home 9-2 at London’s Olympic Stadium to square the series.

It means they go into Saturday’s final Test at a sold-out Wigan needing victory in the decider to clinch a first series win since Great Britain defeated New Zealand in 2007.

But, with England kept tryless for the first time in 15 years, there were worrying signs.

“Across the board the effort was there and the commitment was there,” said Hardaker, rated the best player in Super League this season.

“But it was just some skill we lacked in and, if those opportunities on the international stage go missing, then you come up with the loss.

“We just didn’t attack very well. We gave the ball over in cheap places.

“But we defended our line on numerous occasions – there were three or four back-to-back sets with drop outs – and it is very encouraging for next week knowing if we can defend like that and if we fix up our attack we’ll do very well.”

England’s disappointing kicking game allied to an unwillingness to provide their three-quarters with much decent possession meant it was a frustrating afternoon against the world’s No 1 side.

“We can’t blame the conditions,” added Hardaker, after torrential rain prior to kick-off made for a slippery surface in the first rugby league to be held at the Olympic Stadium.

“They certainly didn’t help but if we play like that next week and pick up the attacking things I’m sure we will give a good display.

“We knew New Zealand would come out fighting especially going down one-nil.

“It’s just a bit of a tough game but all the lads are really encouraged by the performance we gave; we know it was a loss but we can fix the wrongs and make it right next week.

“Compared to the first Test, we defended more than we attacked this time but we will get it right for Wigan.”

England coach Steve McNamara took the opportunity at the post-match press conference to send a message to rugby league journalist Gary Carter, who is fighting for his life in a London hospital after being the victim of an assault in the early hours of Friday morning.

“The England team sends its best wishes to him and his family and hope he makes a full and speedy recovery,” he said.

A 35-year-old man has been charged with causing grievous bodily harm.