England face a unique task to keep their Rugby League World Cup hopes alive after a 30-12 loss to Tonga. They must beat Papua New Guinea in Woollongong on Friday and then need Tonga to beat Samoa on Sunday, while overturning a 68-point deficit on points difference. Coach Brian McDermott insists his side cannot chase points blindly.
"We've got a specific task this weekend. I think it'll be a stiffer test than it was against France," McDermott said, referencing the 82-0 win over France. He stressed the need for physicality first, discipline, and sticking to the game model rather than overplaying.
Papua New Guinea, coached by Jason Demetriou, present a tougher challenge with many players familiar with the British game. McDermott expects a well-coordinated, physical side.
To avoid a historic early exit, England must deliver a commanding performance and then rely on results elsewhere.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing