HUNTER Wildfires assistant coach Matthew Johnston spends his working days watching talented players in his role as a game analyst for World Rugby.
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Johnston mainly focuses on sevens tournaments and referees, but he knows what makes a quality player.
And with Rugby Australia on Tuesday confirming the Wallaroos will play two tests against Samoa in July, he believes a couple of Wildfires can push their claims in the next few weeks.
"Newcastle has gone very well in the AON Seven series which has its final round this weekend," Johnston said."There are also multiple girls in Super W squads. The region has a rich history of Wallaroos.
"Ash Walker is in a broader Wallaroos squad and Kaitlan Leaney would be a roughy. As a second-rower she has tremendous skills, a good frame and is a powerful ball carrier. She is someone who could force her way in, especially with the World Cup being pushed back until October next year. It means more girls can push their claims."
Walker and Leaney are among seven Wildfires at the Gold Coast this weekend with the Newcastle University AON Sevens side and will miss the Jack Scott Cup clash against Western Sydney at Holroyd Sports Ground.
The Wildfires are coming off a resounding 55-14 win over Gordon, which followed a 12-all draw with Warringah.
"We are fortunate that there are only three changes to thee starting team," Johnston said. "It should be a chance to keep our momentum going. We will look to move the ball around again.
"Traditionally, the Two Blues are a big side. We were happy with the way we kept the ball alive and moved it around against Gordon."
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