Young Welsh stars make mark in Europe and England stunned by crushing Tonga loss

The latest rugby news and headlines from Wales and beyond

By Ben James · Wales Online

Published: Saturday, 17 October 2026 at 4:28 PM

Key Things to Know

Ospreys defeated Black Lion 39-14 in the Challenge Cup, while England suffered a 30-12 World Cup defeat against Tonga.
Youngster Gwilym Evans won man of the match for Ospreys following squad rotation by coach Mark Jones.
Dolphins half-back Isaiya Katoa scored 14 points to guide Tonga past England in Perth.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Ospreys coach Mark Jones praised his youthful side after a 39-14 EPCR Challenge Cup victory away against Black Lion in Georgia, with youngster Gwilym Evans earning man-of-the-match honors. Meanwhile, England suffered a severe setback in their Rugby League World Cup opener in Perth, falling to a 30-12 defeat against Tonga.

Isaiya Katoa starred for Tonga with 14 points kicking and set up two tries for Haumole Olakau'atu alongside scores from Stefano Utoikamanu and Tolutau Koula. Elsewhere, New Zealand defeated Australia 43-21 in Sydney to retain the Bledisloe Cup, and England's women's rugby league team beat Wales 70-6.

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Young Welsh stars make mark in Europe and England stunned by crushing Tonga loss

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