League: Courageous defence earns praise from Kearney

Jason Nightingale was battered and bruised against England. GETTY

Kiwis coach Stephen Kearney lauded the defensive courage of his side to withstand a strong challenge from England and hold on for a nail-biting 16-14 win in Dunedin last night.

Right wing Jason Nightingale and hooker Thomas Leuluai departed during the first-half to undergo concussion tests and received attention to nasty head cuts but both returned to play vital roles. "That was the really pleasing aspect of the contest tonight," Kearney said. "Everyone contributed to the courageous effort in defence.

"They [Nightingale and Leuluai] both got fair splits down the front of their faces and came off. They were alright so they went back on."

Leuluai and interchange forward Tohu Harris both finished the match with shoulder concerns but Kearney was unsure of the severity of their injuries.

"We need to reassess things over the next 24 hours and get a read on them."

Captain Simon Mannering conceded his side had let themselves down with some missed scoring opportunities but was pleased with their tenacity and defensive determination.

"At the crucial times, when we need to, we seem to be pulling together and coming up with the right plays," Mannering said.

Despite having won all three of their round-robin encounters, he denied the Kiwis would carry the favourite's tag heading into next weekend's final at Wellington's Westpac Stadium.

"No, I don't think so. No one really stands ahead of anyone else.

"It's all pretty even and I expect nothing less going into the final. It's not guaranteed who we play but, whoever it is, it's going to be a really tough battle."

Their comprehensive win over the Kangaroos in Brisbane a fortnight ago meant little now and Mannering said the Kiwis are focused on maintaining their winning standards next weekend.

"Going into the final, all bets are off and winner takes all."