We know we can do well in Sydney, says Jones

Published Jul 22, 2003

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Sydney - Australia coach Eddie Jones is confident that playing at home will give his side the edge over New Zealand in Saturday's Tri-Nations match.

The Wallabies were unimpressive 10 days ago in losing to South Africa, who were, in turn, trounced 52-16 by New Zealand at the weekend.

Australia have struggled against the Springboks in the past six years, but have won eight of their previous 11 matches against their neighbours, including four of their past five Tests in Sydney.

"That's an advantage for us. We know we can do well in Sydney. If there is any ground that's a home venue (for the Wallabies), it's this one," said Jones. "We are certainly very comfortable playing the All Blacks in Sydney."

Jones said he could not pinpoint why Australia regularly underperformed in South Africa, yet consistently improved against the All Blacks, who have beaten the Springboks in 14 of their past 19 matches.

"I think New Zealand tend to play a lot more ball on the ground and perhaps we tend to play better against teams doing that," said Jones.

He signalled that he was likely to move Matt Burke back to midfield after the Waratahs captain had a nervous return to Test rugby at fullback against the Springboks in Cape Town.

The move would pave the way for the return of Chris Latham at fullback.

"At this stage, it's Mat Rogers or Burke at outside centre," said Jones.

With wing Joe Roff injured and no other regular goal-kicker available, he is committed to either Burke or Elton Flatley in his starting line-up.

Jones said he had yet to make up his mind about the flyhalf position, the choice being between Stephen Larkham and Flatley.

"We're still talking about it," he said. "The beauty about Flatley is that he can also play inside-centre, so he's definitely an option there."

Jones was also weighing up whether to start both openside flanks, George Smith and Phil Waugh.

The move would add to Australia's presence at the breakdown, but would leave the home side without a third experienced jumper at the lineouts.

The Wallabies had good news on Monday when wing Lote Tuqiri and reserve prop Ben Darwin were passed fit. Tuqiri, who will take over from Roff, had a strained hamstring, while Darwin has recovered from a knee injury. - Sapa-AFP

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