Church eyes chance to build as familar face awaits against Wales

After starring with a two-try haul on the wing in the win over England, Jillaroos back Abbi Church was looking forward to her side continuing to build as they prepared to face Wales.

The Eels fullback made her first IRL Rugby League World Cup appearance for Australia in the game against the old enemy and excelled in a game highlighted by stylish tries from the backs, but was quick to praise the work of the forwards.

“It was awesome, obviously I just get to finish off the hard work of my inside players and it's a huge team effort to get the ball out to the edge," Church said. 

“I really commend the middles, they did an awesome work in laying the platform and the edges got to have a bit of fun.”

Next up this Sunday, the Jillaroos will take on Wales who will be driven to test themselves against the best in the world.

Once again named on the wing for this week's match, Church said the team did well to adapt when injury struck down Julia Robinson in their last game.

Further scans on her dislocated wrist have since revealed ligament damage that has ruled her out of the rest of the tournament.

This week, Roosters premiership winner Jess Sergis returns to the centres in place of Robinson, while Sheridan Gallagher takes the place of the reigning Golden Boot winner in the squad.

“We're all very disappointed for her and especially in a milestone game, but I think that it just goes to show the versatility of this squad and being able to shuffle a few players around and still being able to perform at such a high level in different various positions on the field,” Church said.

“But very sad for Robbo.”

While their opponents Wales have struggled in this tournament against some tough opposition, Church knew they had some talented players in their side who would embrace a nothing to lose attitude, including former Parramatta teammate Paige Travis.

“I think every game, we're learning from what went wrong and we're looking to improve and be the best every single week,” Church said

“The job isn't done any week, and I think Wales are going to be pushing hard to give us a contest as well.

“They've had a couple of weeks now to build some combinations, so definitely won't be taking them lightly.

“We're looking to … work on things that need to be done.

“(And) I'm looking forward to seeing Paige again.

“She's always a bit of a character on the field and she definitely gives a bit of a fight.

“She definitely comes out with all her heart and I think she's going to be looking to rip off some inside shoulders on our halves for sure, but I'm confident we can take her.”

The Jillaroos match against Wales will launch a triple header at CommBank Stadium on Sunday, November 1, with Lebanon taking on France and Tonga facing off against Samoa to follow.