Australia's 44-12 semi-final win over Samoa answered doubts about its forwards ahead of Sunday's World Cup final against New Zealand.
Their tournament opener last month ended 24-22 to Australia. New Zealand dominated territory and made more metres, but three long-range tries helped the Kangaroos win.
Tino Fa'asuamaleaui rejected claims Australia lost the forward battle, calling the criticism disrespectful.
"You win the battle, you win the whole game," he said.
He added: "A lot of people probably have disrespected us, probably overshadowed the fact that we did win."
Trent Robinson said on Seven Network coverage that Australia had been out-muscled by New Zealand and Fiji.
Luke Keary warned Samoa or Tonga could steamroll Australia after its 36-22 group-stage win over Fiji.
New Zealand's pack includes James Fisher-Harris, Moses Leota, Joe Tapine and Naufahu Whyte.
Fa'asuamaleaui said he cried during both anthems before the Samoa semi-final, after choosing Australia over Samoa to honour his late father's heritage.