Falcons have chance to fly at MCG

SYDNEY - It's every hand-balling footballer's dream - to play a grand final at the MCG - and 28 New Zealanders have just that opportunity if they win through to the Australian Football League International Cup decider next month.

New Zealand are one of 11 nations contesting the second edition of the cup and the team are looking to improve on their 2002 third placing.

The Falcons start their quest to play the curtainraiser to the Collingwood-Carlton clash at "The G" on August 13 against Great Britain next Wednesday.

They also play pool games against Samoa and Canada before a potentially pivotal clash against 2002 runners-up Papua New Guinea on August 11.

Pool B features defending champions Ireland, Nauru, Japan, South Africa, Spain and the United States.

Because the tournament is designed to foster the game - and not be a gloat-a-thon for the code's pioneers - Australia and ex-pat Aussie players are ineligible to ensure a level-playing oval.

It is probably just as well considering the New Zealand Falcons warmed up for the tournament by copping a 15.10.100 to 4.4.28 drubbing by Maffra, a lower-tier Victorian side, earlier this month.

Falcons technical director Rob Malone is positive about New Zealand's chances, despite the tournament being held before the domestic league starts.

- NZPA