Carter Gordon Set to Handle Wallabies Goal-Kicking Duties at Rugby World Cup: Coach
Carter Gordon, a promising 22-year-old flyhalf, has been entrusted with the crucial goal-kicking duties for the Australian national rugby team, the Wallabies, at the upcoming Rugby World Cup in Paris. Despite some missed kicks in their warm-up match against France, Rebels attack coach Tim Sampson believes that Gordon has the skills and mental fortitude to excel in this high-pressure role.
Gordon, who has only played three Tests, has impressed his coaches with his ability to shrug off mistakes and his growing maturity on the field. Although he did not handle goal-kicking responsibilities for his club team, the Melbourne Rebels, Gordon’s impressive ball-striking abilities and dedication to training have earned him the confidence of his coaches.
As the Rebels’ first-choice kicker, the super-boot Reece Hodge was overlooked for World Cup selection, presenting Gordon with an opportunity to showcase his talent on the international stage. Despite his relative inexperience, Sampson is confident that Gordon will rise to the challenge and handle the pressure of being Australia’s main playmaker.
The decision to exclude veterans Quade Cooper and Bernard Foley from the World Cup squad was a bold move by Wallabies coach Eddie Jones, placing a significant responsibility on Gordon’s shoulders. However, his physical robustness and his experience carrying the load for the Rebels during the Super Rugby season have made him more than capable of fulfilling this role.
Sampson acknowledged that Gordon did not have as much training volume during the Super Rugby season due to hip flexor and groin niggles. Nevertheless, he believes that Gordon’s work ethic, mental resilience, and ability to learn from his mistakes will serve him well at the World Cup.
With the opening match against Georgia just around the corner, the Wallabies are confident in their decision to entrust the goal-kicking duties to Gordon. While he may face challenges along the way, his dedication, skill set, and support from the coaching staff make him a strong contender to handle this crucial role.
In conclusion, Carter Gordon’s selection as the Wallabies’ goal-kicker for the Rugby World Cup reflects the faith that his coaches have in his abilities. Despite limited practice during the Super Rugby season, Gordon’s ball-striking skills, mental resilience, and physical robustness make him well-suited for this high-pressure role. As the tournament approaches, it remains to be seen how Gordon will perform, but the Wallabies are confident that he will rise to the challenge and contribute to their success on the international stage.
