68-point swing and a Tonga win – how England avoid World Cup exit

England need a few things to go their way next weekend to stay in the Men's Rugby League World Cup – but they have at least given themselves a chance. England crush France 82-0 to stay in World Cup contention For Brian McDermott's side to reach the semi-finals of the Rugby League World Cup, a specific series of events needs to happen next weekend. On the backfoot since being humbled 30-12 by Tonga in their opening game, England responded with a crushing 82-0 victory over France to keep their dreams alive. It means England need to beat co-hosts Papua New Guinea in their final group match in Wollongong next Friday – then hope Tonga beat Samoa, two days later in Sydney.

Samoa though have the upper hand on Tonga. They won the last match between the sides 34-6 in October last year, also in Australia. If Samoa win, England will be eliminated because of their inferior head-to-head record against Tonga. But if Tonga win, it comes down to points difference between England and Samoa. England's difference, after the Tonga loss and France win, is +64. Samoa, following hefty victories over the French and PNG, is +132 – which is 68 better than England. So, 68 is the number to remember. If England beat PNG by 68 points or more, then