What changed
England beat Papua New Guinea 34-12 but are almost certain to miss the World Cup semi-finals. After leading 22-0, England’s attack unravelled into 21 errors and a 57% completion rate.
Why it matters
England needed a big win after beating France 82-0, with a 68-point deficit to Samoa to erase. The victory helped, but not enough: qualification now depends on Tonga beating Samoa by more than 46 points.
That is a steep final twist. Samoa beat Tonga 34-6 in Brisbane 12 months ago and have not lost to them since 2018.
AJ Brimson was England’s standout performer, offering threat in attack and making crucial tackles. But his display could become a consolation in a campaign defined by what England failed to finish. Their semi-final hopes remain alive until Tonga and Samoa play, though the numbers now point heavily towards an early exit.
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