Rugby League: Kangaroos arrive in UK with whimper, not bang

MANCHESTER - Two police officers wearing flak jackets and toting machine guns was the extent of the armed security preparedness as the Kangaroos arrived in England today for their delayed rugby league Ashes league series against Great Britain.

The major worry for the Aussie touring party, however, wasn't an act of international terrorism. Rather, they had prepared themselves for an onslaught of taunts from the English fans, following the Kangaroos' initial decision to cancel the three-test tour in the wake of the September 11 terror attacks in the United States and subsequent bombing of Afghanistan.

Australian media had beefed up the possibility that the Kangaroos would be greeted with howls of derision and accusations of cowardice.

The welcoming party in Manchester did in fact consist of a few rugby league journalists and a scattering of expat fans.

Meanwhile, Australian coach Chris Anderson said he was concerned his side might be a little underdone, prior to Sunday's first test.

Most of his players haven't played a game of competitive league since the end of the regular season at the beginning of September.

But Great Britain coach David Waite dismissed any suggestion the Kangaroos would be vulnerable.

"They're the best rugby league side in the world and their preparation will reflect that," Waite said.