Rugby League: Kahu's kick came out of the box

Jordan Kahu of New Zealand kicks a drop-goal during the International Rugby League Test Series match between England and New Zealand. Photo / Getty Images.

Talk about one out of the box.

The Kiwis didn't have a designated field goal taker before yesterday's match - and the player who kicked the late point hadn't taken one since high school.

Jordan Kahu's 75th minute strike was as unlikely as it was crucial.

The Kiwis aren't known for field goals - they have only converted a handful over the last decade - and the men who potted them, Benji Marshall and Shaun Johnson were both absent yesterday.

But the 24-year-old Kahu, playing in just his second test, showed presence of mind to be alert to the opportunity, and admirable coolness to strike it cleanly between the posts.

"We hadn't spoken about it," said Kahu. "I just started thinking about it; if we got another point it would push us out to just over a try. So I started drifting in towards the end of the game and I was hoping to take it."

Up in the coaching box, Stephen Kearney hadn't issued instructions for a one point shot, but noticed the centre had made his plan.

"I could see [Jordan] shift himself to the middle of the field and it was obvious he was going to have a crack," said Kearney. "He's got a good strike of the footy - thankfully."

Kahu's kick was even more impressive when you consider the Broncos player hadn't snapped one for almost 10 years.

"I think the last one I took was at high school," said Kahu. "We were in a Queensland final with a similar situation - we were up by six. Similar to that one."

Kahu, who still holds bitter memories of the Cowboys' grand final escape, was wary - "[even] after I hit that drop goal I knew anything could happen because I have lost within a minute before" - but it was a vital blow.

For long periods of the second half the Kiwis had threatened the English line - at one stage forcing three goal line drop outs within quick succession - but hadn't been able to extend their 8-2 advantage after Shaun Kenny-Dowall's 42nd minute try.

Momentum was building for the home side, who only needed a draw to seal the series win (as holders from their 2007 series victory). And when Kodi Nikorima spilled the ball over the try line with five minutes to play, it felt like it might not be the Kiwis day.

But then Kahu stepped up, taking rare responsibility for a new player.
"The older boys have taken us under their wings and made us feel equal so we don't feel out of place in this team," said Kahu. "We know we have jobs to do as young players. Anyway, we are playing for our nation. There is no waiting for any other players to step up and do it. We need to step up and take the opportunities as they come."
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