It was the 2000 World Cup final between New Zealand and Australia at Old Trafford – the Theatre of Dreams.
But it turned into a waking nightmare as the Kiwis were thumped 40-12 by their rivals.
Kearney, above, played in the second row and wore the captain’s armband; in tomorrow’s final against the Kangaroos he will lead out New Zealand as coach.
“What do I remember about 2000? Not much, other than we lost,†said the 41-year-old, who ended his playing career as a member of Hull’s Challenge Cup-winning side in 2005.
“We were right in the contest up until about 15 minutes to go and Australia skipped away from us, which is pretty normal for them.
“I can’t remember a great deal else…I probably had a bit too much to drink after the match.â€
Having guided New Zealand to glory in 2008 following a final win over Australia in Brisbane, Kearney can achieve sporting immortality by retaining the trophy.
Article source: http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2013/nov/04/rugby-league-world-cup-samoa-papua-new-guinea
Rugby League: Now a dream can come true for New Zealand"s Stephen Kearney
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