LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Australia's head coach, Mal Meninga, has thrown down the gauntlet to his players, urging them to steer clear of another Pacific Championships upset as they gear up to face Tonga and redeem themselves after their humiliating defeat to the Kiwis.
Meninga's challenge comes as the Kangaroos prepare for a showdown with Tonga in the final at Sydney's CommBank Stadium.
A year ago, Meninga was left reeling after his team suffered a crushing 30-0 loss to New Zealand, marking a dark moment in Australia's lengthy rugby league history.
But with the Kiwis now out of the running following their narrow 25-24 loss to Tonga last week, the Kangaroos have a chance to set things right after last year's disastrous performance.
Seven players remain from the squad that suffered at the hands of the Kiwis - Dylan Edwards, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Pat Carrigan, Harry Grant, Lindsay Collins, Reuben Cotter, and captain Isaah Yeo.
Meninga is confident that the current crop of players have what it takes to rewrite history and come out on top in the final.
With Meninga's sights set on redemption, the Kangaroos will need to dig deep and show their true colors on the field.
It's a chance for them to make amends and prove that they have what it takes to overcome the odds and emerge victorious.