England’s 34-12 PNG Win Leaves Rugby League World Cup 2026 Hopes on Edge, Towards Exit Despite Victory
Early lead fades
England began strongly, scoring four tries through Matty Ashton, AJ Brimson, Dominic Young and Harry Smith. Their efforts put them 22-0 ahead after 22 minutes. That start appeared to give England a chance to make significant progress against the 68-point deficit they needed to overcome against Samoa. But the team struggled to maintain control as the match unfolded.
PNG take advantage
England repeatedly lost possession and conceded penalties, allowing Papua New Guinea to regain belief. Dudley Dotoi and Gairo Voro scored tries for the Kumuls as England surrendered the initiative.
England eventually won 34-12, but the performance was marked by 21 errors and a completion rate of 57%. Those figures left the scale of the points chase looking difficult to achieve.
Samoa remains a hurdle
England had earlier beaten France 82-0, a result that helped set up their attempt to close the gap on Samoa. The PNG win, however, is expected to be insufficient in the final reckoning.
Samoa’s record adds to the challenge: the side lost 34-6 to them in Brisbane 12 months ago and has not beaten its neighbours since 2018. A result against Samoa is described as highly improbable.
Key points
- England beat Papua New Guinea 34-12 but appear close to a World Cup exit.
- England needed to make up a 68-point deficit on Samoa.
- England led 22-0 before errors and penalties let PNG back into the match.
- England made 21 errors and completed 57% of their plays.