Adam Bailey
DeanoHarmoKumuls Leave Dent on England
October 26th 2008 05:57
Category: 2008 Rugby League World Cup
Paul Wellens of England is hit hard by the Kumuls George Moni.
England were heavy favourites going in to the contest but the first 40 minutes was filled with Kumul courage and brilliance.
The English were able to open the scoring through Ade Gardner but when Rod Griffin busted through the line to score for the Kumuls they erupted in celebration, jumping all over each other at the thrill of levelling the scores 6-6.
Winger Lee Smith hit back for the English in the 29th minute scoring the first of his three tries but the opening half was owned by the Kumuls when Jason Chan and an outstanding George Keppa both crossed the line to give the underdogs and 16-12 lead at the break.
The second 40 minutes turned messy as the Kumuls started to fatigue and the Lions attempted to organise their offence.
PNG were out on their feet and the favourites were able to attack the flanks. Gardner grabbed his second and centre Martin Gleeson added his name to the score sheet.
Penrith hooker Paul Aiton scored a consolation try in the 75th minute but that was the only highlight for the Kumuls as the English wrapped up a six tries to four victory.
The Kumuls felt privileged to be placed in Pool A with the contenders but after their performance in game one they must feel as though they should be semi final bound.
This is unlikely to happen due to them being situated in a pool with Australia, England and New Zealand.
Australia plays New Zealand in a clash of the titans tonight at the Sydney Football Stadium.
If England hopes to challenge the strength of the southern hemisphere then they will need to improve in all facets of their game.
However, the Kumuls will go in to their next contest against New Zealand confident that they can match it with the rest of the world.
- Adam Bailey
Boofhead Sports
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