League: Kiwis on brink of golden era but face a spot of brother

The best young talent coming through in the NRL is from New Zealand - and the Kiwis are about to challenge Australia's long-term domination of international league.

So says Matthew Johns, brother of the world's greatest player, Andrew, and a former representative player.

He predicts Friday night's game will be "the best test in many a year".

"The Kiwis are on the brink of a golden era. Benji [Marshall], Sonny Bill [Williams], Frank Pritchard, Roy Asotasi - they are the best players coming through. Australia's domination of the scene will be sorely tested.

"It's good for New Zealand to have a spread of players around the NRL," Matt Johns says. The Warriors help, improving coaching, offering opportunity and inspiring Kiwi kids to play league at the highest level, even if not for the Auckland club.

Andrew's ankle is not 100 per cent, he says, but Matt is well aware of what a win on Friday night will mean to his younger brother. "Every player wants to go out in a fairytale. He knows people remember how you finish your career."

And, despite lauding the Kiwis side as the best New Zealand has put out for years, he warns that Joey will alter his game to attack whatever defence the Kiwis produce. "He plays what's in front of him. If you're soft up the middle he goes there. If it's on outside he goes there. If there is an edge on Friday, it's at halfback."

Kiwis coach Brian McClennan is taking Johns' predictions of a golden future with a grain of salt. "We have 35 players in the NRL. Who do we put in at fullback if Brent Webb gets injured?"