LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Kangaroos are poised to assert their dominance in the Ashes, aiming for an even stronger performance in the second Test, despite the absence of their unfortunate captain, Isaah Yeo.
Sympathy for Yeo is palpable within the team, as he referred to leading Australia in the Ashes after a 22-year hiatus as the "pinnacle" of his career. Unfortunately, his moment at Wembley was cut short after just seven minutes due to a serious head injury.
The incident involving England's Dom Young not only sidelined Yeo but also means that the four-time NRL champion will miss Sunday morning's (Australian time) second Test against Everton, along with the opportunity to guide the Kangaroos to their 14th consecutive series victory.
However, under the acting leadership of Harry Grant, Australia is eager to build on their initial 26-6 triumph, believing that significant improvement is still achievable, despite the convincing result of their four-try win.
"It was a bad knock that [Yeo] got, but we've got good medical staff who'll look after him this week, and we'll see where he's at in the next few days. He's a tough hombre, so he's not going to say too much," stated coach Kevin Walters.
Given the category-one concussion, Yeo may face an 11-day absence, which could potentially end his series participation, especially considering his history with concussions.
Australia managed to adapt well to Yeo's absence, with Reuben Cotter stepping in effectively.
"I expect us to get better in game two," Walters asserted.