BBC Sportrugbyleague

By Jon Wilkin St Helens and England

It been a very tough couple of weeks - a poor performance against Australia, being injured, and then watching the boys struggle in the second half against New Zealand.

But sometimes adversity brings the best out of people and, despite our poor form and endless criticism from all areas, we still have every chance of doing well in the World Cup.

New Zealand overturned a big half-time deficit to stun England

I'm just hopeful I get selected for Saturday's semi-final at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane and can be part of something special.

The Kiwis will be pretty buoyant ahead of the game, having played very well for the second 40 minutes against us and with some world class players coming back into the side.

They are always physical and bring speed and passion to every game they play. We just need to pull together and get a result.

As for Australia, who should win the other semi against Fiji, they have yet to have a bad game in this tournament.

Despite being the defending champions and overwhelming favourites, they seem relaxed and confident, full of smiles and laughter.

When you're in that frame of mind and winning games, things happen effortlessly and you enjoy every moment.

I went to a koala sanctuary on Wednesday and saw some of the most docile animals ever - the bears basically wedge their big backside between branches, chew leaves and sleep.

Some Australians have been more welcoming to England than others

I got to hold one, which wasn't too daunting, but that all changed when I was handed a python. I have honestly never ever been so scared in my life.

It wrapped itself around my neck and decided to hiss in my ear. I reckon it could have eaten me at the drop of a hat.

The ranger kept telling me I had nothing to worry about, but I've watched enough Discovery Channel programmes to realise that accidents do happen. I was sure I was going to be one of them.

Back home in England there are very few animals which can kill you, something you take for granted, but it's a very different story in Oz.

I'm paranoid about each and every insect and animal I come across over here, including pythons. It was an unnerving yet funny experience, but I'm so glad I did it.

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