Terry Newton in training

"We cannot let their ball players, especially Andrew Johns, dictate to us. Willie Mason is a giant and all of their forwards can run.

"I would urge our lads to mix it up with them at the play-the-ball.

"Years ago, we used to soften them up first and then play our football - and if we do that again, we can win.

"An old-fashioned 'blue' in the opening minutes wouldn't do us any harm. The fans expect something like that from a Great Britain side in Sydney, and that's what we should give the Aussies."

Watson's 'tactical advice' is well-received by Britain's tough, all-action front-rower McDermott.

Although respectful of the Aussies' reputation, he is ready for a rumble on Friday night.

"We have a confidence and a self-belief about us, but we are not shouting here in Sydney," he said.

GB coach David Waite prepares his troops

"That would be silly. Australia are the world champions and we must respect them. But we have not come here to play 'pat-a-cake' with them.

"People talk about the differences between the Aussie's league and our Super League back home.

"Our front-rowers are five to 10 pounds heavier than theirs, and we are a little more physical.

"We like to wrestle around the ruck areas to see who comes out on top, and we are looking forward to doing that. My front row partner Terry O'Connor will relish it.

"We'd back ourselves in the trenches if need be - and that's where we'll be on Friday night against the Aussies.

"Anything they throw at us, we'll take and then give back.

"Shane Webcke is a very good player, and this new lad Willie Mason is a giant and tough.

"But I'll introduce myself to them early on, and I'm sure so will Terry."

Let battle commence - with or without a blue!