PREVIEW: 2014 Four Nations Week 2

There is no off season here at LeagueUnlimited, and it appears that the cream of the rugby league world doesn't get much time off either.

The Four Nations tournament continues this weekend with games in Whangarei and Melbourne.

Times listed are AEDT (NSW/VIC) unless otherwise noted.

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New Zealand v Samoa
Saturday 2:00pm AEDT (4pm local) at Toll Stadium, Whangarei

Although they didn't jag a win in the opening week, Samoa's showing against the Poms proved they won't be Four Nations pushovers. However, one plucky performance against an error-riddled England does not make a successful tournament.

The challenge for the islanders goes up a gear when they take on New Zealand on Friday. Coach Matt Parish, rightfully toeing the ‘respect is not enough' line in the media, has made a number of changes to the side that went down by eight points in the opening match.

After coming off the bench, Pita Godinet starts at hooker following an impressive two-try performance. Michael Sio is gone altogether, with four interchange forwards listed - a sign that Parish is looking for a little extra muscle to counter the New Zealand pack.

The Kiwis ran overran an inexperienced and out of sorts Kangaroos side and are now favourites to take the trophy with them across the Tasman. Stephen Kearney has made three changes to his team, although there is no suggestion the side is going in under strength. Manu Vatuvei replaces Gerard Beale on the wing, while Suaia Matagi made his international debut in place of Greg Eastwood.

But the big inclusion is South Sydney dummy half Issac Luke. The explosive hooker missed the first game due to suspension and should be fresh and firing. 

The clash of the pack is obviously where first blood will be drawn but the Kiwis have a touch more class in the backline. Traditionally at their best when they can build into longer format competitions, New Zealand has all troops on deck for this one. They mean business.

Tip: New Zealand 38-12

Australia v England
Sunday 4:00pm AEDT at AAMI Park, Melbourne

England has the opportunity to extract some revenge for decades of rugby league disappointment at AAMI Park on Saturday.  If the motherland can knock off their opposition it will make it exceptionally difficult for the convicts to qualify for the final. 

England are unchanged but don't be surprised if lock Sean O'Loughlin makes an appearance. 

The Australians will have to overcome a confidence-battering first outing against New Zealand and the absence of yet another star player - Greg Inglis. Their line up, well, remains up in the air. Daly Cherry-Evans has had an interrupted preparation and is battling injury but you sense Tim Sheens will give him to the last minute to prove his fitness ahead of such a crucial game. 

Sheens has shuffled the pack with Corey Parker starting at lock. However, the lack of prop forwards on the bench remains a concern, especially when they'll come up against a rampaging Burgess duo and James Graham in the middle. 

The classy Gareth Widdop is again the key for England, while halfback Matty Smith was solid in the opener and will be better for the run.

The Kangaroos are set to don their commemorative blue-and-maroon jersey. Although the jumper is steeped in history, it doesn't hide the fact that this is without doubt the most inexperienced ‘Roos side in a long time. 

The planets seem to be aligning for England to land a memorable killer blow. Still, I just can't tip ‘em.

Tip: Australia 20-16