PARIS, AFP - Penrith Panthers centre Michael Jennings insists he can handle the pressure of the Four Nations final after grabbing a debut hat-trick in the demolition of France.
The 21-year-old bagged the first two tries of the game to set the Kangaroos on course for a comfortable win in Paris. Jennings, Panthers Rookie of the Year and Player of the Year in 2007, completed his hat-trick as Australia hammered home their advantage in the second-half.
And after missing out on a place at the 2008 World Cup, Jennings admits he's desperate to play a part in next week's showpiece.
"I've did my bit with my tries and I was really happy with the way I played but now it's up to the coach," said Jennings.
"I was pleased, obviously the team performance wasn't as good as we would have wanted it to be but a debut hat-trick is pretty special.
"A few guys were given a chance and I think it wasn't just me who made the most of it.
"As a team we weren't great in the first-half but I don't think anybody let themselves down in the second-half.
"We weren't flying by any measures but we were clinical and that is ultimately what you're after."
