Vodafone Fiji Bati star Kurt Donoghoe believes the performance of Fiji's forwards against Australia proves they can match New Zealand's powerful pack in Saturday's must-win Rugby League World Cup clash at Cbus Super Stadium.
Playing at five-eighth, Donoghoe guided the Bati to their closest result against the Kangaroos in eight World Cup meetings, going down 36-22 after the scores were locked at 16-16 with 25 minutes remaining.
The Dolphins utility provided three try assists and three line-break assists in a man-of-the-match performance, but was quick to praise his forwards for standing up against the defending champions.
Sea Eagles lock Caleb Navale, Knights prop Jacob Saifiti, Eels second-rower Kitione Kautoga, former Rabbitohs player Taane Milne and Warrington-bound rookie Mitch Prest all delivered strong performances against Australia.
Donoghoe says he was pleased with how the forwards performed and has no doubt they can deliver another strong performance against New Zealand this weekend.
He acknowledges that the Kiwis have a big and powerful forward pack but believes Fiji's performance against Australia shows they are capable of matching them.
The loss to Australia means the Bati must defeat New Zealand on Saturday to secure their fourth Rugby League World Cup semi-final appearance since 2008.
Both teams have lost to Australia and defeated the Cook Islands in their Pool A matches.
Donoghoe believes the lessons learned from the match against Australia will help Fiji prepare for the crucial encounter.
The Bati will face the Kiwis at 4.30pm this Saturday at Cbus Super Stadium on the Gold Coast, with the winner advancing to the semi-finals.
