England rugby team face World Cup exit after win over Papua New Guinea

Early lead turned into a narrow victory

England scored four tries in the first 21 minutes to build a significant advantage. Sloppy errors and defensive lapses allowed Papua New Guinea to score two converted tries during the second half. The final result was a 34-12 win for England, but it was not enough to secure qualification.

Qualification depends on another match result

England needed Tonga to beat Samoa by over 46 points to advance to the semi-finals. The team had already suffered a heavy defeat to Tonga in their opening game of the tournament. Their previous victory against France with an 82-0 scoreline did not guarantee a spot in the last four.

Points difference proved too difficult to overcome

The squad required a win margin of 70 points or more to overtake Samoa on points difference. They failed to achieve this necessary margin after conceding possession repeatedly and giving away penalties. The final standings will almost certainly see England eliminated from the competition.