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England beat Papua New Guinea 34-12 but are all but out of the Rugby League World Cup

By ChordNews · First written (new coverage , updated )

England rugby league reaches defining moment after men face early World Cup exit
Image: theguardian.com
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Summary

England beat Papua New Guinea 34-12 in the Rugby League World Cup, but the win is almost certain to leave them out of the tournament. BBC Sport described the performance as error-strewn, saying it will almost certainly lead to England's World Cup exit. The Guardian reported that, under the tournament format, England are effectively out after their defeat on the opening weekend, and that only a rugby league miracle from Tonga on Sunday would keep them in. The Guardian said the format, with ten teams in lopsided groups, has been a point of discussion since that defeat, and that the tough questions now need to be asked internally of English rugby league.

This continues an earlier story: England thrash France 82-0 to keep Rugby League World Cup semi-final hopes alive

Later: Tonga beat Samoa 20-18 in Rugby League World Cup derby, confirming England's men's exit on points difference

Timeline

  1. The Guardian

    Source ↗

    The Guardian reports that England are heading home early after their 34-12 win over Papua New Guinea, as only a rugby league miracle from Tonga on Sunday could keep them in the tournament.

  2. BBC

    Source ↗

    BBC Sport reports that England's points chase against Papua New Guinea ended in an error-strewn 34-12 win that will almost certainly lead to their World Cup exit.

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