England’s men exit Rugby League World Cup despite Tonga’s gripping win over Samoa

Tonga defeat Samoa 20-18 in SydneyEngland exit tournament on points differenceEngland’s men have been eliminated from the Rugby League World Cup on points difference after Tonga’s 20-18 victory over Samoa.Brian McDermott’s side required Tonga to beat Samoa by 47 points or more to progress and it means it is the first time in history that England or Great Britain will not be in the last four. Continue reading…

Tonga’s defeat of Samoa in a pulsating match showcased the best of Pasifika rugby league though it was not by enough to save England from an early World Cup exit Sometimes sport does live up to the hype. Any suggestion that there was little riding on this result was evidently nonsense, when weeks of anticipation evolved into a mass display of national pride, the desire to get one over on their Pasifika cousins far greater than wanting to avoid Australia in the semi-finals. Tonga and Samoa flags had flown from cars for several days across the eastern seaboard and five hours before kick-off the streets of Parramatta were throng with huge groups of both nationalities celebrating their cultural bond.

Both teams were basically through to the final four, yet still produced an exhilarating derby that confirmed England’s exit from the Rugby League World Cup on points difference. Fans who’d paid sums previously unheard of for international rugby league tickets on the black market and resale sites will consider it money well spent. Those who got theirs for $20 will consider it the buy of the year. Any game would