England’s international demise, World Cup almost over, and more things we learnt from England 34-12 win over Papua New Guinea

England defeated Papua New Guinea 34-12 in their final group stage match of the Rugby League World Cup, but the result leaves them on the brink of elimination. Needing to overcome a 68-point differential against Samoa, Brian McDermott's team opened with a 22-0 lead within 20 minutes before a 49-minute scoring drought allowed PNG to fight back.

Writer Sam Cook argues that England's international standing is deteriorating, suggesting the national side now sits a distant fifth behind tier-one and surging Pacific nations. Cook highlights that tactical errors, 20 mistakes, and starting Jez Litten instead of using him from the bench undermined England's hopes, leaving McDermott's coaching future uncertain.