New Zealand plans to play another physical game against Australia in the second Tri-Nations rugby league Test, although Kiwi coach Brian McClennan has warned his side against overdoing it.

McClennan said Friday his side's only hope in upsetting Australia may rest in turning the match into a slugfest. Australia won the opening match 30-18 last weekend in Auckland.

``In some senses it is (our only hope of winning),'' McClennan said. ``But it's the same for Great Britain and the Aussies are not bad at getting physical either. It was a physical game last week and they won convincingly.''

Despite losing, New Zealand issued several punishing hits in Auckland, the heaviest David Kidwell's shoulder charge on Australia's Willie Mason.

The hit made a lasting impact, with Mason ruled out of Saturday's match due to ongoing headaches Friday.

``I hope that it stays confrontational because I think that's the difference between an international and an NRL match,'' McClennan said. ``I think it's really important for the fans that there is that element of physicality in the match, that's what the fans are turning up to see.''

Mark O'Meley will replace Mason in the Kangaroos' starting lineup, while Sam Thaiday has been promoted to make his international debut off the interchange bench.

Britain, the third country in the tournament, begins play Oct. 28 against New Zealand in Christchurch.