Paul The Dark Horse For An Nz Upset: Freeman

Illawarra Mercury

Friday April 23, 2004

FORMER New Zealand coach Gary Freeman believes Bradford playmaker Robbie Paul holds the key to the Kiwis pulling off one of the biggest upsets in Test rugby league for more than a decade.

Freeman appears to be one of the few people on either side of the Tasman willing to back the friendless Kiwis, who will start the match at Newcastle's EnergyAustralia Stadium as rank outsiders.

His confidence is fuelled by his prior dealings with the clever, creative Paul with the Kiwis.

``He's a crucial player in tomorrow's Test," said Freeman. ``He probably holds the key to us winning the game."

Kiwi selectors have named teenager Thomas Leuluai in the No7 jersey in the absence of Stacey Jones with Paul at hooker, but coach Daniel Anderson is no stranger to tinkering with his side before the kick-off.