England have been eliminated from the Women's Rugby League World Cup following a 24-6 defeat to Samoa in Wollongong. Stuart Barrow's side needed a win to secure a top-two finish in Group A and a third consecutive semi-final appearance, but instead suffered a second straight loss. Freedom Crichton Ropati scored a first-half hat-trick, leading Samoa to a 12-0 lead at the break.
Mercedez Taulelei-Siala extended the advantage early in the second half. Evie Cousins scored England's only try in captain Jodie Cunningham's final match, but Samoa held firm. Pauline Piliae-Rasabale added a late score to seal the win.
The defeat follows a 15-try loss to Australia and leaves England third in the pool on two points, exiting alongside Wales. Samoa progress to the semi-finals for the first time in their history.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing