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Can they do it? Upbeat coach says Mate Ma'a Tonga ready to cause huge boil-over against England in team's biggest match ever

November 24, 2017

Kristian Woolf said the energy in the squad has been unbelievable.

Mate Ma'a Tonga's head coach Kristian Woolf says his side have a lot more to give and are eager to write another chapter in their fairy-tale Rugby League World Cup (RLWC) story, when they take on England in tomorrow's semi-final in Auckland.

Woolf said the energy in Tonga's camp had continued to grow throughout the tournament.

Normally leading from the front on the field, Sio Siua Taukeiaho froze for a while before taking the leap off the Sky Tower in Auckland.

"At the moment I'm really enjoying what I am doing with these blokes, this has been an outstanding campaign," said Woolf.

"Like the players I have enjoyed my six weeks. That speaks volumes itself for the whole group I think.

"Six weeks away together is a long time and everyone is still enjoying each other's company," he said.

"I think I speak for everyone when I say we don't want to go home yet."

Woolf also praised his young halves Ata Hingano and Tuimoala Lolohea for their progress throughout the RLWC.

"They have got better and better like everyone else in this tournament. They are a big part as to why we have been so successful and why we have kept improving," said Woolf.

"They are doing a terrific job and they've outplayed some really good halves in different games as well.

"Like the rest of the squad I'm really comfortable that come the big game tomorrow they're going to be ready to go and perform."

The winner of tomorrow's match will play either Fiji or Australia in next week's final in Brisbane.

Mate Ma'a Tonga will face England at Mt Smart Stadium on Saturday for a spot in the World Cup final.

Some Mate Ma'a Tonga players stepped out of their comfort zone, facing their fears of heights.

The Tongan centre wasn't getting too far ahead of himself, however, saying his side first need to overcome a tough England side to reach the final.

The two league stars have hit it off since being in camp for the RLWC.

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