Australian Rugby
Folau seeks revenge for Lions loss
ESPN Staff
October 27, 2013
Israel Folau looms as a major threat against England on November 2 © Getty Images
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Newly crowned Wallabies Rookie of the Year Israel Folau is determined to exact revenge on England and Wales after the heartbreaking series loss to the British & Irish Lions earlier this year.

Folau, who is taking part in his first northern hemisphere rugby tour, says he wants to put in a performance "to remember" in next weekend's blockbuster against England at rugby's most famous stadium, Twickenham.

"The rivalry between the Aussies and the Poms is something you always want to get up and play for, Wales as well, it will be a hit back for the Lions campaign," Folau told Rugby Gold. "Most of the guys involved are in the Welsh and English teams, you want to be playing your best footy against quality sides like that. It's in the back of your mind, that this is the only way you can get back at them, playing these type of games.

"It makes it a lot more special when you make your mark against good teams like that, especially at stadiums like Twickenham," Folau said. "You want people to remember your performance in a big game, that's something I really enjoy as a challenge. As a player you want to stand out. I will try to play my role for the team. It only helps if we get a full team performance that guys can shine as individuals. It's a special thing for me to have big performances in big games."

The Wallabies begin their campaign for a first Grand Slam - victories against England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales - in three decades when they take on England on November 2 and Folau is feeling increasingly comfortable in his role at fullback.

"[I'm] a lot more [comfortable] in attack, getting my hands on the ball, coming into the line and calling it with confidence," he said. "Realising that I can play for the team a little bit more, getting the team on the front foot at times, I feel a lot more comfortable in doing that."

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