Addo-Carr scores 5 tries to get Australia into RLWC Semi Final

Bulldogs winger Josh Addo-Carr continued to make a mockery of his State of Origin snub earlier this year with a five-try haul as the Australian Kangaroos grabbed a semi-final spot in the Rugby League World Cup with a 48-4 victory over Lebanon in the UK overnight.

Addo-Carr had a hat-trick up before the 20 minutes mark crossing in the 4th 15th and 18 minutes of the clash.

NSW selectors and coach Brad Fittler didn’t want Addo-Carr for this year’s Origin series but he has been a try-scoring freak for the Kangaroos under the guidance of Queensland coach Mel Meninga.

He is being considered as a possible replacement for recently retired Bulldogs captain Josh Jackson and on his form for Australia is making a strong case for the job.

Most judges expected the scoreline to be a lot bigger in Australia’s favour but Lebanon under captain Mitchell Moses and former Australian Wallabies coach Michael Cheika devised a game plan which frustrated the Kangaroos.

Lebanon slowed down the ruck speed and targeted halfback Nathan Cleary and with 47 percent of possession was able to stifle Australia’s attack at times.
Australia will now meet hosts England or Papua New Guinea in next week’s semi.

Australian captain James Tedesco failed to return for the second half but Meninga explained he was suffering from a minor cork and was in no danger for the semi-finals.

Australia who were “clunky” at times according to Meninga, crossed for 9 tries, with Addo-Carr grabbing five and forward Cam Murray adding two to his World Cup tally.

Meninga was more pleased with Australia’s defence which was only breached by Lebanon’s Australian-based winger Josh Mansour in the 50th minute.
Australia led 30-0 at halftime.

“The ruck speed wasn’t the best, “ said Meninga after winning.

Lebanon captain Mitchell Moses swapped jumpers with his close mate Tedesco after the game and said he felt great despite the loss because his country had now qualified for the next World Cup.

“It was nice to captain this side it’s something I will cherish forever,” said Moses.

“To get the jumper of the Australian captain (Tedesco) is great.

“It’s going straight to the pool room”.

Moses praised coach Cheika for inspiring him and the Lebanon players and said he had a big future in the NRL if he wanted to switch from rugby to league.

“The way he gets you up for a game I’ve never seen before,” said Moses.

“He’s got a big future in rugby league if she wants it.”

Cheika is currently coaching rugby in Argentina.

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