Kearney: It's all on the line tomorrow

New Zealand rugby league coach Stephen Kearney, 2nd right, reacts, during the Captains Run at the DW Stadium, Wigan England Friday Nov. 13, 2015. Photo / AP.

Welcome to the `test' grand final

Kiwis co-captain Adam Blair has played in a lot of big games across his career - including grand finals and the 2008 World Cup final - but says tomorrow's match with England is comparable.

It's certainly a unique situation. The Kiwis last played a three test series in 2007 but haven't featured in a decider in more than a decade, back in 2002.

"It's right up there with the big games and we are looking forward to it," said Blair. "We have sacrificed a lot of things at this time of year to be here, hopefully the hard work we have put in over the last 28 days will pay off tomorrow."

"It's unusual playing for your country in this situation," said Peta Hiku. "It's like a test grand final I guess."

The Kiwis seem primed and ready, if their final training session is any indication. It was held in freezing conditions on Friday afternoon at DW stadium, with an icy wind adding significantly to the wind chill factor, as well as frequent showers.

But the New Zealand side were all energy and focus, as they completed some close quarter work and a series of backline drills.

"[There was a] lot of energy around the field even though it was freezing," said Blair. "The boys enjoyed it and we are pumped and ready to go.'

Blair also discounted the suggestions that the match day forecast - wind, cold and rain - was an advantage for the home side.

"I don't think it changes too much," said Blair. "The game is always won through the middle and we have a big job as a forward pack. We have to go out there and compete. [And] at times we get some showers and a bit of cold over in Australia...sometimes."

Meanwhile Kearney was reluctant to comment on whether the tour could already be judged a success, regardless of tomorrow's result, because of the amount of young players that have been blooded and new combinations forged.

"Our focus is only on an 80-minute performance tomorrow and making sure we bring our best game," said Kearney. "It's all on the line tomorrow. We are good to go. I feel we have built on the back of the first test, and last week, and I feel like we have more improvement in us."

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