TWO rounds of the Rugby League World Cup are in the books, and we are starting to get a clearer picture of who the genuine contenders are and which nations are only playing for pride with one round remaining.
Australia remains one of the teams to beat, but the Kangaroos have shown they are far from unbeatable after scraping through against Fiji 30-22.
While winning is the main objective, Australia will need to lift another gear as the tournament progresses or they might just find themselves watching the final from the grandstands.
Defensive lapses, poor execution and missed opportunities could prove very costly when the knockout stage comes.
New Zealand have also given their supporters something to think about.
The Kiwis have the talent to challenge for the title, but their slow starts are a concern.
They cannot afford to give other leading nations an early advantage and expect to chase them down every time.
Tonga and Samoa, meanwhile, are looking impressive. Both nations have plenty of power, skill and enthusiasm, and their performances suggest they could make a serious impact in the knockout stages.
Samoa, in particular, will fancy its chances if it can maintain its current momentum, while Tonga has the ability to trouble anyone on its day.
At the other end of the scale, France has been diabolical and has struggled to make the impact many would have hoped for.
Papua New Guinea have also been well below their best, with their form a major disappointment.
The Cook Islands, Fiji and Lebanon have produced some encouraging patches of football.
All three nations have shown they can compete, although maintaining that standard for a full 80 minutes remains the challenge.
England has started to find some form, but the big question is whether the players have left themselves too much to do.
The women’s competition has been just as revealing. The Jillaroos are in scintillating form and look well above every other nation at this stage.
Their commanding performances have underlined the strength and depth of Australian women’s rugby league, and they will take some stopping if they continue at this level.
This week shapes as another important chapter in the men’s tournament.
Australia faces the Cook Island, while New Zealand meets Fiji – barring any upsets, the Aussies and Kiwis will progress into the semi-finals.
