Halifax's Papua New Guinea international Makali Aizue believes the Kumuls can make an impact in the Four Nations.
Veteran prop still hoping to play in NRL
Halifax's Papua New Guinea international Makali Aizue believes the Kumuls can make an impact in the Four Nations.
PNG face holders and hot favourites Australia in their opener in Parramatta on Sunday.
The Kumuls, who have never beaten the Kangaroos, suffered a 46-6 loss in the most recent meeting between the two sides at the 2008 World Cup.
And with Cronulla hooker Paul Aiton the only member of the current squad with NRL experience, new coach Stanley Gene's men are expected to struggle against Australia, England and New Zealand in the coming weeks.
But Aizue, who missed the 2008 clash against the Kangaroos through suspension, is adamant the Kumuls are capable of pulling off a major upset this weekend.
Belief
"We've got a belief," he said. "That's what we're here for. We're not here just to make the numbers - we are here to give them a good game and we believe we can probably surprise them on Sunday.
"We just cannot wait to play. The camp's been good. Everything's been really good. We started slow but we're picking up, everybody's looking forward to the game.
"In previous camps all the international players were put in luxury hotel (rooms) and all the local boys were put in a basic (rooms).
"But this camp has been the best - everybody's been put together. We share everything together and it's been probably the best camp I've been in since I played for Papua New Guinea."
On a personal level, the 32-year-old prop is hoping an impressive performance in Sydney will put him in the shop window.
The former Hull KR man, who turned down an offer to join the New Zealand Warriors in 2001 because he could not speak English, is now at the veteran stage but he is refusing to give up on his lifelong dream to play in the NRL.
Goal
"I would love to give the NRL a shot if I do get a chance," he added. "It's always been a goal so I hope I get the opportunity and I'll grab it with both hands.
"It's on me to put up a good performance and see where it takes me from there. I've got a get-out clause in my contract so if I do get a better club I'll just leave.
"I remember in 2001 we played Australia back in Papua New Guinea and Matthew Ridge wanted to sign me for New Zealand Warriors but because I couldn't speak good English I just stayed back home."
