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England and France set up wheelchair World Cup final rematch

England and France are through to the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup final in Wollongong, Australia. England beat the hosts 86–18, while France defeated Ireland 82–26. Friday’s decider brings together the same finalists as in 2022, when England took the title. Australia and Ireland move into the match for third place.

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Wheelchair rugby league players competing on an indoor timber court during the World Cup semifinal in Wollongong, Australia.

England and France book another final

England beat host nation Australia 86–18 to reach the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup final in Wollongong, Australia. The result sets up a Friday final against France, bringing back the pairing from the 2022 title match.[1], [2]

France defeated Ireland 82–26 in the other semifinal at WIN Entertainment Centre on 10 November. Australia and Ireland move into the third-place game. England won the 2022 final 28–24; France previously took the title in 2013 and 2017.[1]

England establish their lead before half-time

Early scores from Robert Hawkins and Joe Coyd helped England reach 30–0 before Diab Karim opened Australia’s account. The half-time score was 40–6. Jack Brown added two tries early in the second half as England moved to 52–6. Mason Billington was player of the match with three tries, seven tackle breaks and 20 carries. Australia coach Brett Clark said his players had failed to execute their preparation and communicate on the wings.[1]

Denuwelaere scores six tries against Ireland

France led Ireland 32–14 at half-time before pulling away after the break. Dany Denuwelaere scored six tries and was named player of the match, crediting teammates for creating his scoring opportunities. France had beaten Scotland, New Zealand and Australia in the pool stage. Ireland reached this round for the first time; player-coach Phil Roberts credited improvements in its domestic competition with helping develop the squad.[1]

References

  1. News sourceNRLEngland and France reach wheelchair rugby league final↩1↩2↩3↩4
  2. News sourceSky SportsEngland reaches wheelchair World Cup final after beating Australia↩