Gidley's Role Short But Sweet In Victory

Newcastle Herald

Saturday May 10, 2008

By BRETT KEEBLE

NEWCASTLE Knights main man Kurt Gidley was a spectator for most of the Centenary Test at the SCG last night.

But the 25-year-old dynamo made an impact when he was thrust into the game in the 63rd minute as a replacement for fellow Western Suburbs Rosellas junior Anthony Tupou, doing all he could in his limited time to contribute to Australia's 28-12 victory over New Zealand in front of a near sell-out crowd of 34,571.

Having cleared out to a 22-0 half-time lead, the Kangaroos conceded an early second-half try and endured some anxious moments in defence as the Kiwis rallied to restore wounded pride.

Australia were in control leading 22-6 but under some pressure when Gidley entered the battle. He made a tackle, had an early touch, and had only been on the field for 60 seconds before the Kangaroos put the result beyond doubt with a try to winger Israel Folau.

Gidley sat anxiously on the bench as the Kangaroos raced away to a 22-0 lead after as many minutes, then had to keep warm and stay focused as the only Australian interchange player unused in the first half.

Ricky Stuart called his number just after the hour mark.

The likely NSW halfback made 10 tackles and ran for 45 metres from four runs and should still be fresh and full of running for Newcastle's game in Melbourne on Monday night.

© 2008 Newcastle Herald

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