World Cup fever in both codes of rugby

The excitement is building for the Rugby World Cup Final between England and New Zealand. 

While the rugby world will turn its attention to this epic showdown at Auckland’s iconic Eden Park on Saturday morning, kick-off 6.30am, England’s Rugby League counterparts provided a fine blueprint for what is required on Wednesday night. 

Playing against a robust Papua New Guinea side in the group stages of the Rugby League World Cup at Headingley, England had to withstand a hugely physical start from the Orchids, who took a shock lead with a try from Martha Molowia. 

Gradually, England settled into their rhythm and eventually ran over PNG with some wonderfully slick rugby. Leah Burke scored a hat-trick, there was a brace for Caitlin Beevers and further tries from Tara Jane Stanley and Vicky Whitfield in a 42-4 victory.  

England will play either Australia or New Zealand in the semi-finals in York on Monday.