Fiji vs. Ireland: Preview for 2013 Rugby League World Cup Clash

This Monday will see Fiji and Australia attempt to carry on the magnificent standard that’s already been produced in the Rugby League World Cup since its explosive Saturday opening at the Millennium Stadium.

The Group A underdogs will clash in Rochdale in an attempt to see just which side stands a better chance of finishing directly behind Australia and England, or even better, go on to stage a bigger upset.

It’s the Pacific Islanders that head into this encounter as major favourites, but Mark Aston’s Irish side boast their own cast of Super League talent as well as a handful of NRL assets.

Anything’s possible with that kind of quality in the roster, with a breakdown of some of the most important men to watch detailed ahead.

Date: Monday, October 28

Time: 8 p.m. BST/3 p.m. ET

Venue: Spotland Stadium, Rochdale

Key Battle

Pat Richards vs. Akuila Uate

Now back in the NRL, Pat Richards will come across a number of faces at this World Cup that he can become more used to seeing with Wests Tigers, one of whom is Akuila Uate.

For season upon season since 2006, Richards has been a key component in the Wigan Warriors machine, undoubtedly one of the finest foreigners ever to play in Super League rugby.

The winger will play just as essential a role for his national side in this competition, and prolific scoring sensation Akuila Uate is likely to be one of the first obstacles in his path.

Due to the difference in quality between his squad and Fiji’s, it’s likely Richards’ defensive talents that will be put to the test more against Uate, who boasts an NRL percentage far greater than a try every other game for the Newcastle Knights.

The 26-year-old Votua native is held in high regard among Southern Hemisphere backs and will be one of the main threats to Ireland’s back line, with Richards their best shot of stopping The Fijian Flyer.

X-Factor Player to Watch

Scott Grix

Having captained Ireland at the 2008 Rugby League World Cup, Scott Grix has since relinquishes the responsibilities of leader of his national side for the upcoming examinations.

That being said, the relief may benefit the Huddersfield Giant star greatly, enabling Grix to function as normal without the pressure of having to influence those around him.

Grix has played more than 100 games for the Giants, with 38 Super League tries to his name since the 2010 season.

Known for his use in a number of roles among the back line, the 29-year-old will nonetheless be forced to at least lead Ireland with his playmaking as much as anything else, though this will depend on exactly how Aston wishes to utilise him.