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Matt backs Kyle to star
HALIFAX boss Matt Calland has backed his one-time protege Kyle Eastmond to take tonight's Gillette Four Nations decider against Australia by storm.
England half back Eastmond, the cousin of Fax full back Miles Greenwood, graduated from Calland's rugby league academy at Hopwood College on his way to Super League stardom with St Helens.
The 20 year old, who only became a regular starter at Knowsley Road this year, teamed up with another young gun, Wigan sensation Sam Tomkins, as England downed World Champions New Zealand last weekend and will keep his place for tonight's blockbuster at Elland Road.
"It's really satisfying to see Kyle doing so well," said Calland, himself a former England international.
"He came through at Hopwood in the same team as (Salford's Hull-bound back rower) Jordan Turner and we won the competition that year.
"He has been behind Sean Long at St Helens as far as playing half back is concerned, but I always knew that if he got a chance at this level he would take it.
"I don't think him or Tomkins are the complete package as far as organisation is concerned, and Kyle is never going to be dominant physically because of his size.
"But they are both so dangerous in attack because they play off the cuff so well.
"They are certainly capable of causing problems for Australia.
"I have always been a believer that if you are good enough, you are old enough, and I think they've both justified the faith that Tony Smith has shown in them.
"He's got Kevin Sinfield in there at hooker to provide some direction and I hope it works again for them tonight."
Whether or not Eastmond can help engineer England's first tournament win over Australia since 1972 is another question, with Calland admitting he fears the Kangaroos' star-studded backline.
"I'd love to see them win it, and my heart says England, but my head still says Australia," said Calland, who was at Wigan a fortnight ago as Australia romped into a 26-0 lead inside half an hour.
"That day I thought I was watching the best team I have ever seen: Slater, Inglis, Thurston, Lockyer, Hayne, it's an unbelievable backline.
"I think the conditions will play a big part tonight.
"If it stays wet, and England can stay in the game, then they have a chance."
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Weather for Halifax
Thursday 09 February 2012
Today
Light snow
Temperature: -0 C to 1 C
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Light snow
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