England 60 – 6 Samoa

Two tries each from Dom Young and Elliott Whitehead helped England get the tournament under way with a stunning win over Samoa at St James’ Park; Jack Welsby, Kallum Watkins, George Williams, Tommy Makinson, Herbie Farnworth and Tom Burgess all went over too

Dom Young grabbed two tries for England as they stormed to victory over Samoa

Two tries apiece from Dom Young and Elliott Whitehead helped England kick off their Rugby League World Cup campaign in style with a 60-6 demolition of Samoa in Newcastle.

Jack Welsby’s opening try followed by Young’s first-half double, along with the goal-kicking of Tommy Makinson, helped the tournament hosts into an 18-6 lead at half-time.

Stephen Crichton’s converted try following an interception ensured Samoa remained in the hunt at the break, but Kallum Watkins’ try in the 49th minute cemented England’s hold on the contest.

Anthony Milford’s yellow card for a late hit on Sam Tomkins then proved a blow which Samoa would not recover from, with Whitehead, Herbie Farnworth, Makinson, George Williams and Tom Burgess all piling on tries to give the hosts the perfect start to the tournament.

More to follow…