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'Licence to play': New Wallabies coach backing players in attack

From ABC Australia · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • The new Wallabies coach, Les Kiss, has given players a "licence to play," encouraging attacking play.
  • Australia secured a narrow 35-32 victory over Japan in Kiss's first Test match as coach.
  • The team aims to improve their fluency and execution in upcoming matches, despite facing challenges like a red card and difficult conditions.

New Wallabies coach Les Kiss has instilled a "licence to play" mentality, empowering his team to embrace attacking risks. This approach was evident in Australia's hard-fought 35-32 victory over Japan, marking a successful start to Kiss's tenure.

He (Kiss) has given us the licence to play and is all for us having a crack … (If we) see space, take it.

— Ryan LonerganThe halfback explained the new attacking philosophy implemented by coach Les Kiss.

The match, played in Osaka, saw Australia overcome a 20-minute red card and challenging heat and humidity. While the attacking fluency seen in a previous win against Italy wasn't fully replicated, the team managed to secure the win, a significant improvement after winning only five of 15 Tests last year under Joe Schmidt.

Now it's up to us to know how to make use of it … we've got to know that when we take that space we've got to be on board with it and commit.

— Ryan LonerganThe halfback elaborated on the players' responsibility to execute the attacking strategy effectively.

Halfback Ryan Lonergan highlighted the coach's encouragement to "take" any available space, emphasizing the need for players to commit to these opportunities. Coach Kiss acknowledged the team's kicking struggles and occasional impatience but noted the positive dynamic in the coaching box, even sharing a laugh during a tense moment.

I'd imagine there will be one or two tweaks.

— Les KissThe coach commented on potential changes to the team for the upcoming match.

Kiss, drawing from his rugby league background, is pushing for an Australian style of play that balances self-belief with game management. He indicated that adjustments to the team lineup are likely for the next match in Townsville, considering player fatigue and the need to optimize energy levels.

This trip took a lot out of a lot of guys; we'll have to look at where the energy is, and at the numbers, because you lose a lot of weight.

— Les KissThe coach discussed the physical toll of the trip and the need to assess player energy levels.
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Originally published by ABC Australia. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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