England’s Rugby League World Cup campaign is all but over after their final pool match victory failed to secure a place in the semi-finals. The team, coached by Brian McDermott, defeated Papua New Guinea 34-12 in Wollongong but fell short of the substantial winning margin required to surpass Samoa’s points difference in the group standings.

England began the match strongly, registering early tries from Matty Ashton, AJ Brimson, Dom Young, and Harry Smith. Despite maintaining pressure and keeping close to their opponents throughout the game, the victory margin was not sufficient to keep their tournament hopes alive.

For England to advance, Samoa would now need to lose heavily to Tonga, with a margin of at least 46 points, a scenario considered highly improbable. As a result, England will likely exit the tournament at the group stage and return home without reaching the knockout rounds.

The outcome marks a disappointing conclusion for England, who entered the World Cup with aspirations of contending for the title but were ultimately unable to secure the necessary results to progress. Their elimination contrasts with the advancing teams from their pool, including Samoa and Tonga, who remain in the competition.