England thumped by Tonga in World Cup opener

England thumped 30-12 by Tonga in Rugby League World Cup opener as Pacific Islanders claim stunning win England beaten 30-12 by Tonga in Rugby League World Cup opener; England trailed 10-0 at half-time after Stefano Utoikamanu try and three goals from Isaiya Katoa; AJ Brimson and Dom Young scored second-half tries but Haumole Olakau'atu double and Tolutau Koula try condemns England to defeat Last Updated: 17/10/26 12:06pm England were handed a Rugby League World Cup reality check after a 30-12 thumping by Tonga in their tournament opener. Brian McDermott's reign as England head coach got off to a dismal start as Isaiya Katoa inspired Tonga to a famous victory in Perth. Half-back Katoa provided the precision behind Tonga's powerful forward pack. He proved the difference between the teams during a physical first half, creating a try for Stefano Utoikamanu and kicking three goals to give Tonga a 10-0 half-time lead. - England vs Tonga as it happened - Get Sky Sports or stream contract-free on NOW - Choose the Sky Sports notifications you want England had their moments in attack despite a scoreless first half and AJ Brimson got them back into the contest with a well-worked score but two Tonga tries in three minutes, followed by another Katoa penalty, left them trailing 24-6 with 19 minutes remaining. Dom Young's 63rd-minute try gave England hope but Haumole Olakau'atu's second try, again created by Katoa, condemned them to a chastening defeat. More to follow... What's next? England must regroup ahead of facing France in Perth next Saturday, kick-off 7.35am (UK and Ireland time). [Image text:] PAC S KXXXX OXEN COP OXEN 90N NEXO