James hopeful of massive Wrexham support

With Wales looking to bounce back from their 32-16 defeat to Italy against the USA on Sunday, prop Jordan James is hoping that the passionate crowd up in Wrexham can spur them on to victory.

The Racecourse ground is the setting for Iestyn Harris’ side’s must-win clash against the United States, which has become even more important following the Tomahawks impressive debut win in the Rugby League World Cup beating the Cook Islands 32-20 last night.

James is familiar with the Racecourse ground after the Crusaders were based there during the 2010-1 season and with the game close to a sell-out, James has urged the bumper crowd to be on top form come Sunday afternoon.

“It’s always nice to play here in Wrexham,” he said.

“I had some good times here with the Crusaders – the fans are very loyal and passionate and they make a lot of noise, which is great from a player’s perspective.

“I’m looking forward to running out onto the Racecourse field once again and hopefully we can put on a show for them.

“Home support can play a massive part in the USA match especially as when you’re down and out and you hear people singing and cheering it really gives the players a lift.

“Nothing beats hearing thousands of people signing the Welsh national anthem and I’m really looking forward to playing in front of a passionate home crowd here in Wrexham.”

The Tomahawks travel to Wrexham in confident mood following their historic win over the Cook Islands, with a squad bolstered with the likes of NRL stars Clint Newton and Wednesday night’s man of the match Joseph Paulo.

And James, who will ply his trade with the Gloucestershire All Golds next season, is expecting a tough, physical contest against the World Cup newcomers.

He added: “The Tomahawks have got a few experienced NRL players in their squad and they will be big and strong.

“They’re a country that excels when it comes to sport so they are going to come here fired up and looking to win. We’ve got to make sure we’re well prepared and match them physically.

“We’ve got a relatively young squad but the guys know each other pretty well.

“We’ve been together as a unit for four or five years now and we have a strong bond as a team.”

Tickets for the Wales vs. USA game are available online at http://www.rlwc2013.com/tickets, in person at the Glyndwr University box-office or by calling the Rugby League World Cup ticket hotline on 0844 847 2013.