RLWC quick hits: Chase for glory wide open heading into semifinals
With the knockout stage looming, here's everything you need to know from week three of the Rugby League World Cup.
The Rugby League World Cup's group stage concluded with a series of thrilling matches, including Lebanon's golden-point victory over France and an enthralling clash between Tonga and Samoa. Both contests showcased high-caliber rugby league action, leading to the advancement of Australia, New Zealand, Tonga, and Samoa to the semifinals.
One standout player to emerge from the tournament is Papua New Guinea's Gairo Voro, who played a crucial role in their golden-point win against France. Voro's performance, alongside fellow countryman Dudley Dutoi, hints at a bright future for Papua New Guinea in the sport.
New Zealand and Samoa are poised for a fierce showdown in the semifinals, with Samoa's Jamayne Isaako leading the charge. His remarkable scoring feat of 26 points from a try and 13 goals against Fiji suggests he could be on track to surpass Shaun Johnson's Kiwi pointscoring record. Meanwhile, Australia's reigning champions face a precarious position as their unbeaten record is called into question by their lackluster performance against New Zealand.
The tournament's semifinals will be a battle of two unbeaten teams, with New Zealand and Samoa vying for the ultimate prize. Kevin Walters, Australia's coach, is contemplating his halfback options between Tom Dearden and Sam Walker, but Reece Walsh appears to be the favored choice. The impending semifinals will determine which of the four teams will claim the coveted Rugby League World Cup trophy.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
