Wallaroos back-rower Piper Duck and the team are glad to be out of the chaotic weather conditions that followed them in the USA, as they settle into their base in the Sunshine Coast.
The team arrived on Monday from Kansas City ahead of Saturday's ANZAC Day match with the Black Ferns, having dealt with a myriad of disruptions during their American tour.
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Both games against Canada and the USA were significantly delayed by storms, with last week's match starting two-and-a-half hours after the original scheduled time.
It meant the contest seeped into another day as they were outmatched by the hosts 33-12.
In between games, the team was forced to take shelter due to tornado warnings, with the clear blue skies and beaming sun of Queensland a welcome change.
“We've had a few issues with weather over the past two weeks, really pushing our games back, but our game against Canada, I was really impressed with that and I was really proud of that scoreline," Duck told the media.
“Heading into Kansas City, obviously not the result we wanted, but we had the situation with the tornado in Tornado Alley, which was definitely an experience getting to say we've played a test match over two days. We would have liked a different outcome, so we’re reviewing that and getting ready for this week.
“...It's nice being here after the weather we've had with the tornadoes and things we've got to experience, which honestly was pretty cool to see, but definitely glad to have some sunshine on the beach.”
The squad were keeping the focus internally as they looked to turn their campaign around.
“We obviously haven't had that amount of time yet to review that game and preview the Black Ferns, but just looking at it briefly, just controlling those controllables,” Duck said on the key work-ons.
“We have been working really hard in the lead-up to these games, and we have developed so much as a team and as a squad, so when we didn't quite execute that on Saturday, obviously, circumstances did make it difficult as well, but we’re not using that as an excuse.
“As individuals and as a team, we have the system in place to execute and do well, so one is implementing that and as individuals taking accountability for our role in that as well.”
Duck and the Australians were eager to rebound and test themselves against the Black Ferns, sharing the flight over from the USA.
The Kiwis produced a statement win over World Cup finalists Canada, but the number eight remains confident in her side's ability to press for a maiden victory over their trans-Tasman rivals.
“I think every time I've taken on the Black Ferns, I always look forward to it. They have such an incredible forwards pack that are really backed up by their backs as well but I'm feeling really confident in the group," Duck believes.
“We have always given them the respect they deserve, they're a very quality team and going up against them is always an outstanding challenge and something we really do look to get up for.
“The team is extremely solid and definitely have the correct amount of respect for that team but also very ready for the challenge to go out there firing.”
