England vs Fiji

rhugh89

rhugh89

Danny 'Bedsy' Buderus
Thread for this Group A clash on Sunday 10th November

1:00am (EDT)
12:00am (AEST)

Live on 7mate


England vs Fiji - 2013 World Cup @ The KC Stadium, Hull


Head to Head

Played - 2
England - 2
Fiji - 0


In England

Played - 2
England - 2
Fiji - 0


World Cup Matches

Played - 1
England - 1
Fiji - 0


England's Record in the World Cup

Played - 24
Won - 14
Drawn - 2
Lost - 8


England's Overall Test Record

Played - 172
Won - 117
Drawn - 9
Lost - 46


Fiji's Record in the World Cup

Played - 11
Won - 4
Lost - 7


Fiji's Overall Test Record

Played - 18
Won - 8
Lost - 10


2013 WORLD CUP STATS


Metres Gained

England - 2,673m (5th in the 2013 RLWC)
Fiji - 2,368m (9th in the 2013 RLWC)


Tries

England - 12 (Equal 2nd in the 2013 RLWC)
Fiji - 6 (Equal 10th in the 2013 RLWC)


Line Breaks

England - 11 (3rd in the 2013 RLWC)
Fiji - 4 (Equal 11th in the 2013 RLWC)


Tackle Breaks

England - 67 (5th in the 2013 RLWC)
Fiji - 34 (12th in the 2013 RLWC)


Tackles

England - 628 (5th in the 2013 RLWC)
Fiji - 574 (10th in the 2013 RLWC)


Missed Tackles

England - 29 (13th in the 2013 RLWC)
Fiji - 68 (4th in the 2013 RLWC)


Errors

England - 31 (2nd in the 2013 RLWC)
Fiji - 19 (11th in the 2013 RLWC)


40/20's

England - 0 (EQUAL WORST IN THE 2013 RLWC)
Fiji - 0 (EQUAL WORST IN THE 2013 RLWC)


Yellow Cards

England - 0 (EQUAL BEST IN THE 2013 RLWC)
Fiji- 1 (EQUAL WORST IN THE 2013 RLWC)


Red Cards

England - 0(EQUAL BEST IN THE 2013 RLWC)
Fiji - 0(EQUAL BEST IN THE 2013 RLWC)


Penalties Recieved

England - 18 (Equal 3rd in the 2013 RLWC)
Fiji - 16 (Equal 6th in the 2013 RLWC)


Facts and Figures


* England are Ranked Number 3 on the RLIF Rankings


* Fiji are Ranked Number 7 on the RLIF Rankings


* These 2 teams have only met twice with England winning big both times (46-0 and 66-10)


* They haven't met since the 2000 World Cup


* England have won 5 out of their last 6 Test Matches


* England have only won 1 out of their last 5 World Cup Matches (42-0 Against Ireland in their last World Cup match)


* In that time they suffered losses to NZ (Twice) and Australia (Twice)


* Fiji have won 2 out of their last 3 Test Matches


* Fiji have also won 6 out of their last 10 Test Matches






* 2013 World Cup Stats courtesy of www.rlwc2013.com

* Historical Stats are my own work

* As with my stats in Knights games through out the year the Errors and Missed Tackles Stats are in reversed order, The higher your ranking the worse it is e.g England are ranked 2nd in Errors, This means they make the second highest amount of errors out of the 14 teams competing at the 2013 RLWC
 
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George Burgess struggling with leg injury

By Ian Laybourn
AAP
2:10am Mon 04th November, 2013

George Burgess is battling desperately to overcome a leg injury in time for England's final Rugby League World Cup group game against Fiji in Hull on Saturday.

The 21-year-old South Sydney prop played less than a quarter of the match in England's 42-0 win over Ireland on Saturday after taking a blow just below his right knee in the opening moments.

"It's really swollen at the minute," said Burgess, who played on for another 15 minutes before coming off.

"I'll be working hard to get it right for next week and the rest of the tournament.

"I think it was my first carry so a bit of a nightmare there.

"I'll definitely be trying to get it right for next week. I'll ice it up and it should be alright.

"I've not missed a game yet this year through injury and I don't intend to."

Burgess was forced to watch from the sidelines as England cruised into a 30-0 lead after 23 minutes.

It was an emphatic way for Steve McNamara's men to bounce back from their opening 28-20 defeat by Australia at the Millennium Stadium.

With older brother Sam set to return from a one-match suspension and George's twin Tom likely to keep his spot, there is the prospect of three brothers playing alongside each other at the KC Stadium, where Tariq, Korbin and Ashton Sims are expected to once more line up for Fiji.

McNamara is confident that prop James Graham, who made his first appearance of the tournament from the bench, will shake off a knee injury and his biggest selection dilemma could come on the right wing, where Tom Briscoe made the most of his opportunity after being surprisingly chosen ahead of Josh Charnley.

Graham was missing from the opening match against Australia amid reports of him, like Hock, breaking an alcohol ban.

When asked why he was omitted for the opening game, Canterbury Bulldogs' former St Helens forward replied: "It's not my thing to talk about selection policy. You'd have to ask the coach."

McNamara cut short a press conference in Cardiff when continually quizzed over the non-selection of Graham.

At stake in Saturday's match is the runners-up spot in group A and a possible quarter-final with France at Wigan on Saturday week.

http://www.nrl.com/george-burgess-struggling-with-leg-injury/tabid/10874/newsid/75244/default.aspx
 
Hardaker pulls out of England squad

By Ian Laybourn
AAP
4:41am Tue 05th November, 2013

Leeds centre or full-back Zak Hardaker has pulled out of England's World Cup squad for personal reasons.

The 22-year-old's withdrawal leaves coach Steve McNamara with a squad of 23 for the last group game against Fiji in Hull on Saturday and the knockout stages.

A statement from England said that "due to personal issues" Hardaker was unable to commit to the England Rugby League programme.

He had informed the management team that he wished to withdraw from the squad, and would not play any further part in Rugby League World Cup 2013."

England say they will work with Leeds to support Hardaker, who has asked for privacy.

Hardaker did not play in either of England's first two matches and his absence from last Saturday's clash with Ireland at Huddersfield was at the time put down by coach Steve McNamara to illness.

McNamara was angered by speculation that Hardaker was set to become the second player to be thrown out of the England camp for a breach of discipline and, in an interview with the BBC before kick-off, accused the media of "making up stories to try and disrupt my squad".

Hardaker was thought to be among the group of players who broke an alcohol ban in the aftermath of England's shock defeat by Italy in a warm-up match at Salford on October 19.

Second row forward Gareth Hock, who was expelled from the tournament after sleeping in and missing the following morning's recovery session, revealed in a television interview that "six or seven" players in all were involved in the drinking session and claimed McNamara had told him they would also be punished.

Prop forward James Graham was a notable absentee when McNamara named his team for the World Cup opener against Australia in Cardiff but returned to face the Irish.

Hardaker won his only cap as full-back in the absence of Sam Tomkins for the opening match of the 2012 autumn international series against Wales in Wrexham, where he scored two tries in an 80-12 victory.

He fought his way into contention for a World Cup spot with a man-of-the-match performance in England Knights' 52-16 win over Samoa last month but was not selected for the game against Australia.




http://www.nrl.com/hardaker-pulls-out-of-england-squad/tabid/10874/newsid/75262/default.aspx

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Fiji's Evans available to face England

AAP
5:03am Tue 05th November, 2013

Fiji centre Kane Evans is free to play against England in a World Cup Group A match at Hull after being given a caution for a high tackle.

Evans was given the warning by an international match review panel for making dangerous contact with the head and neck of Australia centre Michael Jennings in the second half of his side's 34-2 defeat by the Kangaroos at St Helens on Saturday.

The caution will remain on Evans' record for the duration of the tournament.

http://www.nrl.com/fijis-evans-available-to-face-england/tabid/10874/newsid/75263/default.aspx
 
Sims, Burgess brothers to clash at RLWC

By Liam FitzGibbon
AAP
12:11pm Tue 05th November, 2013

What was once floated as a dream backyard footy match-up is set to become a reality when England meet Fiji in a genuine Rugby League World Cup family affair.

Saturday's match will decide second spot in Group A but there'll be even more spice added by a potentially explosive battle between the NRL's Burgess and Sims brothers in Hull.

Barring injury, both trios of siblings are likely to line up for the match and the family ties won't end there.

With Wes Naiqama possibly returning from a back injury for Fiji to play alongside brother Kevin, it means up to eight players could be playing alongside their siblings.

Former Kangaroo Mark Geyer said in a lighthearted tweet earlier this season he'd love to see a backyard battle between the Burgess and Sims boys, an idea North Queensland back-rower Tariq Sims said he'd like to follow through on for charity.

If George Burgess overcomes a knee injury, suffered in England's win over Ireland, the match-up could happen on the international stage, with Sam Burgess set to return from suspension and Tom hoping to play a third straight game.

Ashton, Korbin and Tariq Sims have started in Fiji's opening two games and oldest brother Ashton welcomed a potential battle of the brothers.

Led by 120kg twins George and Tom, the South Sydney Burgesses weigh in at a combined 356kg to the Sims' 326kg.

"It'd be pretty unique," Cowboys veteran Ashton Sims told AAP.

"They're big, physical dudes too and we'd be looking forward to that."

Along with the Sims and Naiqamas, Fiji's squad also features brothers Daryl and Ryan Millard and Bati players have credited the strong family ties with creating a unique team unity.

Ashton Sims said playing on the international stage alongside his two brothers was a career highlight.

"It reminds me of old times growing up in Gerringong on the (NSW) south coast," he said.

"It's something special.

"We all know what makes each other tick and we still get under each other's skin, which is good.

"I think the three of us together bring a lot to the team."

http://www.nrl.com/sims,-burgess-brothers-to-clash-at-rlwc/tabid/10874/newsid/75271/default.aspx
 
Mac keen to move on from Zac

By Ian Laybourn
AAP
2:48am Wed 06th November, 2013

England coach Steve McNamara is determined to draw a line under the Zak Hardaker affair but Leeds boss Brian McDermott has expressed his concern over his player's withdrawal from the World Cup squad.

The England team management ended days of speculation over Hardaker on Monday evening when they confirmed he had pulled out of the squad, citing personal reasons.

Hardaker, 22, is expected to shed some light on the circumstances behind his decision after meeting with his club on Wednesday and McDermott is looking for an explanation.

In an interview with the BBC, McDermott said: "It's clearly concerning what's happened and, until we find out the nature of what's happened and what has happened, I'm not sure what to say.

"Zak was in the England squad and now he's not in the England squad and that in itself is a disappointment, but other than that I'm a bit wary of saying too much until we've talked to him and our own club has made some inquiries."

The withdrawal of Hardaker comes a fortnight after the axing of Gareth Hock for a series of disciplinary breaches while James Graham was left out of the England side for the opening World Cup match against Australia without explanation.

At his weekly media briefing on Tuesday, McNamara maintained his steadfast refusal to comment on rumours of breaches of the team's alcohol ban and played down the effects of the off-field distractions.

"I'm not frustrated at all," McNamara said.

"I'm really happy with the squad that we've got. When you coach or manage, you have all sorts of different situations to deal with."

McNamara drafted Huddersfield's Brett Ferres in to plug the gap caused by the loss of Hock before the tournament kicked off, but says he did not explore the chances of obtaining a replacement for Hardaker.

"I didn't want to. We've got a very good squad, we're covered in most positions."

McNamara expects to be able to pick from a full-strength 23-man squad for Saturday's final Group A match against Fiji at Hull's KC Stadium, a fixture that will determine the runners-up spot.

Utility forward Sam Burgess will return from a one-match ban while younger brother George Burgess and fellow front rower James are expected to recover from knee injuries sustained in the 42-0 win over Irelast last Saturday.

"This week is going to be another difficult week in terms of selection," McNamara said.

"I've said all along I certainly wouldn't make decisions based on keeping everything fluffy and nice. If a couple of changes need making, I'll make them. If I feel someone potentially needs a week off, like I did last week, I'll do that as well.

"It's based on getting us to the end position in the best possible shape ready to perform and hopefully win the competition."

http://www.nrl.com/mac-keen-to-move-on-from-zac/tabid/10874/newsid/75276/default.aspx
 
Burgess plays down brothers battle

By Ian Laybourn
AAP
12:10pm Thu 07th November, 2013

Sam Burgess is trying to play down the battle of the brothers as England prepare to take on Fiji for the runners-up spot in Group A of the World Cup.

The former Bradford forward is set to return from suspension for the game at Hull's KC Stadium on Saturday and is hoping to once more line up alongside twin brothers George and Tom against the trio of Sims brothers.

Ashton and Tariq Sims, who both play for North Queensland Cowboys, have appeared alongside Korbin, the Newcastle Knights forward, in each of the Fijiians' opening two matches and are expected to lead the Pacific Islanders' bid to cause an upset.

"Hopefully all three of us will be in there, if that's how Steve (McNamara) picks his team, but we won't get too carried away with it, we'll just try and do a job for the team," Burgess senior said.

"Those boys are big and physical and they've been very good so far for Fiji. They've been leading their forward pack enormously. It's going to be a great game."

Sam will win his 12th cap for England, refreshed after his enforced absence for last Saturday's 42-0 win over Ireland following the one-match ban handed out for a high tackle during the opening defeat by Australia.

George made a big impression on his England debut against the Kangaroos, following up his stellar season with South Sydney in which he was named NRL rookie of the year, but played little part in the win over Ireland after picking up a knee injury in his first carry of the match.

Sam is excited at the prospect of seeing more of George at the highest level and is also expecting Tom to continue his international apprenticeship after two substitute appearances so far.

"George has had a cracking year," Sam said.

"He trained very hard, worked hard at little things in his game and it's certainly paying off for him.

"Tom is a very good player. He's good at doing his work as a typical front rower. He is normally not expected to do a great deal of stuff, other than to run the ball hard and make the tackles.

Meanwhile, teacher Julie Burgess is keeping an eye on her sons' performances from 20,000km away in Sydney, desperately hoping to get the chance to see them play in the World Cup final at Old Trafford on November 30.

"She actually spoke about it the other day," Sam said.

"Whether she was just saying it in the excitement, I don't know. I think she will come over come final time. But we need to get there first."

http://www.nrl.com/burgess-plays-down-brothers-battle/tabid/10874/newsid/75305/default.aspx
 
More off-field RLWC woe for England

By Ian Laybourn
AAP
4:39pm Thu 07th November, 2013

England's off-field Rugby League World Cup dramas showed little sign of abating after their attempt to cover up the latest breach of discipline blew up in the face of coach Steve McNamara.

McNamara expelled Gareth Hock and suspended James Graham without offering a satisfactory explanation for either bombshell decision and, if he hoped the Zak Hardaker affair would quietly go away after the Leeds player withdrew from the World Cup squad, he was badly mistaken.

After initially putting Hardaker's absence from last Saturday's match against Ireland down to illness, England claimed the 22-year-old's decision to pull out was due to "personal issues".

But Leeds blew the cover on Wednesday night by revealing they had punished their player for breaching the club's code of conduct.

The Rhinos conducted their own investigation into the circumstances behind Hardaker's withdrawal and promptly issued a no-nonsense statement condemning the player's behaviour.

Hardaker, who is thought to have broken the England squad's alcohol ban for a second time, was fined STG2,500 ($A4,250), given a written warning and told to report for pre-season training on November 25, five days before the World Cup final.

"We believe Zak acted unprofessionally and in doing so, breached the Leeds Rhinos player code of conduct," said Leeds chief executive Gary Hetherington.

"We will continue to monitor Zak's future conduct and help him deal with his own issues; which are more to do with a lack of professionalism than anything else."

Unlike Hock, who went on television to defend his actions and implicate others in a Saturday night drinking session, Hardaker was contrite in a statement issued through his club.

"I am sorry for any embarrassment I have caused and my focus now is on moving forward next season and putting these events behind me," Hardaker said.

"I would like to wish (Leeds and England captain) Kevin (Sinfield) and the England team the best of luck for the rest of the tournament and I am looking forward to the start of pre-season with the Rhinos."

The latest unsavoury episode has overshadowed the build-up to England's final Group A match against Fiji in Hull on Saturday which will determine the runners-up spot.

McNamara, no doubt desperately hoping for an end to the distractions, was on Thursday afternoon set to announce his 19-man squad and will make at least one change to the team that beat Ireland 42-0 assured following Sam Burgess' completion of a one-match ban.


http://www.nrl.com/more-off-field-rlwc-woe-for-england/tabid/10874/newsid/75305/default.aspx
 
Sam Burgess back for England

AAP
2:22am Fri 08th November, 2013

England have made three changes to the side that beat Ireland for their final World Cup Group A match against Fiji at Hull's KC Stadium on Saturday.

As expected, Souths Sydney forward Sam Burgess returns from a one-match suspension, Wigan prop Lee Mossop is recalled and there is a first appearance of the tournament for his clubmate, hooker Michael McIlorum.

They take the places of Burgess' younger brother Tom, St Helens hooker James Roby and St George-Illawarra bound playmaker Gareth Widdop.

The 25-year-old McIlorum won his third cap against France in the final of the 2012 autumn international series which Roby opted to sit out.

"Mickey deserves his call-up," said coach Steve McNamara.

"He has trained tremendously hard. He is an aggressive type of player, who will command the middle of the field."

The axing of Widdop will pave the way for Leeds hooker or halfback Rob Burrow to play his first match of the tournament while winger Tom Briscoe has kept his place ahead of Josh Charnley following his two-try performance in the 42-0 win over Ireland.

http://www.nrl.com/sam-burgess-back-for-england/tabid/10874/newsid/75310/default.aspx
 
Petero tips England to make RLWC final

By Michael Oliver
AAP
2:43pm Fri 08th November, 2013

Fiji captain Petero Civoniceva fully expects England will reach the Rugby League World Cup final.

Fiji will tackle England in their final group clash, in Hull on Saturday, and Australia's most capped forward knows exactly what to expect after watching some of the English talent star in the 2013 NRL season.

"Seeing what the Burgess brothers have done this year in the NRL and Sam Tomkins and the other great players they have within their team, I feel that they are definitely going to be featuring in the final," said Civoniceva, who made 45 appearances for Australia.

"All in all they have great attacking potential right across the field - their back three, their halves and their forward pack.

"It is going to be hard to contain the great players that they have but I think they will be up for some big games leading up to the final."

The 37-year-old, whose rugby league swansong will continue in the tournament's quarter-finals unless Ireland produce an immense boilover against the Kangaroos, wasn't quite ready to head home.

"We came fourth in the last World Cup in 2008 and I am hopeful we can emulate that," Civoniceva said.

"But saying that there are a lot of great sides in the competition. It is going to be tough going but if we realise our potential, that could be the case for us."

England trio Tom Burgess, James Roby and Gareth Widdop were all rested for the Fiji clash with the previously suspended Sam Burgess and Michael McIlorum coming in along with Lee Mossop.

Mossop was handed a role from the bench as England began their campaign in Cardiff with a 28-20 loss to Australia.

The 24-year-old then played no part as England got up and running with a 42-0 defeat of Ireland but is back and ready to play his role.

"The main thing is that the best 17 play every week and (coach) Steve (McNamara) has made his decision on who the best men are to beat Fiji," Mossop said.

"We all back each other. I missed out against Ireland but I was very hopeful of coming back into the team to get a shot at Fiji.

"Everyone has gelled together, the banter is good," he insisted amid reports of dressing room unrest following the exits of Zak Hardaker and Gareth Hock, the latter kicked out before the tournament started after flouting an alcohol ban.


http://www.nrl.com/petero-tips-england-to-make-rlwc-final/tabid/10874/newsid/75310/default.aspx


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England v Fiji preview

By Matt Encarnacion
NRL.com
4:00pm Fri 08th November, 2013

England v Fiji

The Kingston Communications Stadium, Hull

Saturday, 2:30pm (UK time)
Sunday 1:30am (AEDT); 12:30am (AEST)

Sibling rivalry takes centre stage in what has become the battle for second spot in Group A.

With tournament favourites Australia set to finish top of the group and minnows Ireland having all but exited, both England and Fiji are likely to progress through to the quarter-finals against either France or Samoa next week.

But while the final group game for both teams has essentially become a dead rubber, at stake is the title of the nation with the best band of brothers – the Burgess boys from Dewsbury, England or the Sims clan from the NSW south coast via Ba, Fiji.

The hosts regain the most recognised Burgess, Sam, who has come under fire for repeated misdemeanours on the football field in 2013, the last of which resulted in a one-game ban that saw him miss their rout of Ireland.

Sam re-unites with twins Tom and George, the latter of which suffered an ankle injury that limited him to 18 minutes against the Irish.

George has been a revelation in the NRL this year and has continued to wreak havoc – he was one of their best against the Kangaroos in the tournament-opener – in the colder confines of home in the northern hemisphere.

All three of the Sims boys, on the other hand, have started both of their games so far – a resounding win over Ireland before a demoralising loss to Australia.

Qualifying through Fijian-born mum Jacquline, the trio add some genuine starch to a forward pack that already includes veteran skipper Petero Civoniceva and the ball-running Jayson Bukuya.

Of course, while bragging rights aren’t the sole focus for either team, it certainly makes for an intriguing segue – and a commentator’s nightmare – into the battle for second spot.

Watch Out Fiji

You don’t think Sam Burgess is coming out with a vengeance?

The Rabbitohs firebrand has come under plenty of criticism – particularly Down Under – for his knack of getting in trouble with the referees this year, and will come out with a lot to prove.

He’s fast becoming the modern day version of Mark Geyer: he will undoubtedly have an impact on this game, but whether it’s good or bad for the home side, time will tell. If the Bati play this right, Slammin’ Sam could find himself in more trouble.

Watch out England

Kangaroos centre Michael Jennings wasn’t kidding when he questioned why former team-mate Petero Civoniceva is retiring after this World Cup.

The most capped prop in Kangaroos history has punched out an impressive 252 metres in Fiji’s two games thus far – the most of anyone in his team. The Sims’ boys might come at England in waves, but Civoniceva’s runs are tidal.

Where it will be won

England coach Steve McNamara has copped a boatload of criticism in regards to the Gareth Hock drama, but his insertion of Rangi Chase against the Irish was a masterstroke.

Together with Kevin Sinfield, England boast a dangerous halves combination. Their ability to create attacking opportunities on either side of the ruck is the biggest advantage England have over the inexperienced Fijian duo of Alipate Noilea and Aaron Groom.

Televised

7mate – Live from 1am (NSW); 12am (Qld).

The Way We See It

England made a statement with their demolition of Ireland. Fiji will put up more of a fight, but McNamara will want to continue their momentum into the finals. The home side by at least three tries.

http://www.nrl.com/england-v-fiji-preview/tabid/10874/newsid/75287/default.aspx
 
McNamara defends disciplinary record

By Ian Laybourn
AAP
12:33am Sat 09th November, 2013

England coach Steve McNamara has defended his handling of disciplinary breaches within his World Cup squad by insisting that he was closely involved in Leeds' clampdown on Zak Hardaker.

McNamara has been widely criticised for how he has dealt with the latest incident in a series of disciplinary breaches that have dogged England's World Cup campaign.

The coach initially responded to speculation that Hardaker had been involved in a drunken brawl by claiming he was ill and told a BBC interviewer that the media "are just making things up to try and disrupt my squad".

Two days later England announced Hardaker's withdrawal from the squad, citing "personal issues", but on Wednesday Leeds issued a statement revealing their player was in breach of the club's code of conduct for players.

The Rhinos fined Hardaker STG2,500 ($A4,281), issued a written warning and ordered him to report for pre-season training on November 25.

Speaking for the first time since Leeds blew the lid on Hardaker's indiscretions, McNamara now claims the England management staff were fully involved in the process to sanction the player.

"We have worked closely in conjunction with Leeds," McNamara told a press conference at Hull's KC Stadium, where England play Fiji in their final Group A match on Saturday afternoon.

McNamara insisted the withdrawal of Hardaker, which followed the earlier expulsion of Gareth Hock for breaking an alcohol ban and failing to turn up for a recovery session, has not caused any disruption to his preparations for the Fiji match.

"I said earlier in the week that, as a coach you have to deal with various situations, whatever arise," he said. "That's been dealt with.

"Unfortunately (Hardaker) couldn't reach the standards that were set within the group. In conjunction with Leeds, the matter has been dealt with."

For Saturday's game McNamara has recalled hooker Michael McIlorum, who was thought to be one of the players involved in the original disciplinary breach featuring Hock, but McNamara remained tight-lipped.

"It's a question that is irrelevant to answer at this stage," McNamara said.

http://www.nrl.com/mcnamara-defends-disciplinary-record/tabid/10874/newsid/75323/default.aspx
 
I feel an upset brewing. I don't know maybe its just me hoping.

My guess
Fiji- 22
England- 20

I hope this happens but it probably won't.
 
I think the commentators said he was rested. Don't know why you would rest him though, they should be going all out for the win here against England.

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Fiji scored a try through Millard but it was just disallowed because Tariq Sims took out Tomkins. 0-0 after 28 minutes, England look much classier but Fiji are using their physicality to beat England up.

Both teams just bashing eachother.

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Eloni Vunakece scores!

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Ben Westwood scores so England level up. 6-all.

Half-time 6-all.

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Sam Burgess scores just after half-time to take the lead.

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Brett Ferres scores just a few moments later, England must have got a rev up by the coach.

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Sinfield down after taking Kevin Naiqama's hip to the head. Great take in the air by Naiqama though.

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He gets up & carries on though.

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Ryan Hall does a great run down the sideline beating a few guys but just puts a foot in touch.

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However after watching replays, they have called it back to look at it for video ref.

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Looking like it may be a try after all.

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So close, only millimetres in it.

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And it's a try for Ryan Hall! Extremely close.

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Rob Burrow scores, England killing Fiji now.

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Another great run by Sam Burgess gets Rob Burrow over the line again but he's held up with a fantastic tackle by Korbin Sims.

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Seconds later though, Ryan Hall scores again.

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Ryan Millard makes a great to finally get Fiji back in England's end.

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34-6 to England after 60 minutes.

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Rangi Chase pulling out the party tricks, finally starting to play well for England, Sinfield gets smashed again & Ryan Hall almost scores again but the ball comes loose just before the line.

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Tom Briscoe goes over but called forward.

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Fiji getting a few penalties. Koroibete gets a big run down the sideline.

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Rob Burrow looking heavily concussed.

Semi Radradra goes over, up to video ref!

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And it's a classic winger's try! In the air, puts the ball down.

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And it's a classic winger's try! In the air, puts the ball down.

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Tariq Sims in an argument with Ben Westwood after Westwood raised an elbow in a run, before all the players come in & have a massive chat with eachother, nothing much. The Sims boys certainly do love getting into it, Korbin has had a few arguments this game aswell.

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Full-time England defeat Fiji 34-12.
 
Reading articles in the Fiji times over the last week or two, it seems that resting players from this game was always a chance because they see the big game for them as the quarter final game where they can win to reach the top 4 again.
 
England beats Fiji for quarter-final spot

AAP
4:38am Sun 10th November, 2013


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England proved too strong for Fiji, winning 34-12 to take the runner-up spot in Group A.


England have grabbed six tries in 18 minutes either side of halftime to rally past Fiji 34-12 and book a spot in the Rugby League World Cup quarter-finals.

Fiji, which held a 6-0 lead approaching the break thanks to Eloni Vunakece's 32nd-minute try, must now rely on Australia beating Ireland later on Saturday to seal a last-eight berth.

Ben Westwood sparked England's recovery in Hull by crossing in the 38th before Sam Burgess, Ryan Hall (two), Brett Ferres and Rob Burrow went over in the third quarter.

Unless Ireland produces a miracle win over the Kangaroos, England will play France or Samoa in the quarters.

It was a fitting victory for the English on a day former international Steve Prescott died following a long battle against cancer.

http://www.nrl.com/england-beats-fiji-for-quarter-final-spot/tabid/10874/newsid/75330/default.aspx
 
By the clock: England v Fiji

By Nigel Wall
NRL.com
9:15am Sun 10th November, 2013

All the big moments from England's win over Fiji in their final match of the World Cup stage.


0 minutes: There's a minute's silence as a tribute to former England and Ireland international fullback Steve Prescott who has died after a seven-year battle with cancer. He was 39.

9th minute: England prop Sam Williams juggles and then loses the ball in a one-on-one tackle from the Fiji defence seven metres out from the opposition tryline.

14th minute: England fullback Sam Tomkins hoists a high ball for the right flank from 20 metres out; winger Tom Briscoe bats the ball back for Kallum Watkins who fleetingly looks like he might break clear but is held fast by the Fijian cover.

20th minute: Fiji prop Ashton Sims pulls off a desperate try-saver on Sam Williams just as it looks like the England bookend has punched through the defence to score. Video review shows Sims knocking the ball from Williams' grasp just short of the tryline.

22nd minute: A lucky escape for England and especially their fullback Sam Tomkins. The No.1 looks foolish when he makes a complete meal of a grubber kick into the in-goal down the left edge, which is pounces on by Daryl Millard.

However the video review shows Tariq Sims taking Tomkins out off the ball and a penalty ensues.

30th minute: Tomkins brings the Hull crowd to their feet with a probing 40-metre run but the Fiji defence stands firm in the end.

32nd minute: Fiji five-eighth Ryan Millard takes the ball at second receiver 30 metres out from the England line and throws a lovely cut-out ball that hits the chest of Tariq Sims on the burst.

Sims draws in opposition interchange Rob Burrow and passes inside to Eloni Vunakece who scores. The try is converted and Fiji hold a surprise 6-nil lead.

37th minute: Rangi Chase takes the ball at first receiver 20 metres out, double pumps a pass to Kevin Sinfield who manages to get on the outside of his man, then hook a pass infield for prop Ben Westwood to score to the right of the sticks. It's 6-all at halftime.

41st minute: After being up to the task in the first 40 minutes the Fiji defence drops its guard, allowing a soft try to Sam Burgess. The prop takes the ball almost flat-footed six metres out from the tryline. Seemingly covered by six men in blue his leg drive carries him into the in-goal for the simplest of four-pointers. England lead 12-6.

43rd minute: England on the attack after a piggy-back penalty 55 metres out from their line. On the third tackle five-eighth Rangi Chase again double pumps a pass at the defensive line, bamboozling the Fijians and sending second-rower Ben Ferres over. England lead 18-6.

46th minute: Kevin Sinfield gets his head in the wrong position attempting to tackle Fiji fullback Kevin Naiqama. After a brief hold-up he leaves the field for a minute.

48th minute: Ryan Hall crosses for England's fourth try – but referee Ben Cummins originally denies the play. Hall is put into space by Rangi Chase (again) down the left touchline, beats two and crashes over but Cummins rules his left foot brushes the touchline.

It's only when the run is replayed on the big screen that he has a rethink. The try is awarded – even though on replay it looks suspect. Sinfield, back on the field now, converts from the sideline. England lead 24-6.

53rd minute: England put the pedal to the metal 30 metres out, with Sinfield and Chris Hill combining to put George Burgess into space.

The hulking interchange offloads to Rob Burrow who shows a lovely darting step to beat the cover and dive over. Sinfield adds the extras and the home team leads 30-6.

56th minute: Halves Sinfield and Chase combine again to send Ryan Hall over for his second try. Sinfield is unable to maintain his unblemished goal-kicking record.England lead 34-6.

71st minute: Fiji post their second try through winger Semi Radradra who beats a soft defensive effort from England centre Leroy Cudjoe to ground the ball in the right corner. Wes Naiqama converts and England lead 34-12, an advantage they take to fulltime.




http://www.nrl.com/by-the-clock-england-v-fiji/tabid/10874/newsid/75332/default.aspx


- - - Updated - - -

England v Fiji player ratings

By Nigel Wall
NRL.com
10:15am Sun 10th November, 2013

Player ratings from England's 34-12 win over Fiji in the World Cup group stage.


ENGLAND


1. Sam Tomkins: Moments of class but also some indecision. 7.5

2. Tom Briscoe: Commercial contribution without anything flash. 6

3. Kallum Watkins: Defended well but had limited opportunities to run the ball. 6

4. Leroy Cudjoe: Solid running and plenty of tackles (24) but his effort to try to stop Semi Radradra from scoring was poor. 6

5. Ryan Hall: Two tries in a stirring effort. 7

6. Rangi Chase:Not much separated Chase, Kevin Sinfield and Sam Burgess as England’s best. Contributed two line-break assists and two try assists with his sublime short-passing game. 8.5

7. Kevin Sinfield: Courageous game from the skipper. Lively and scheming and kicked five from six. 8.5

8. Sam Burgess: Relished the confrontation with the Sims brothers and was tough to contain all afternoon. Made 152 metres with three line-breaks, four offloads and a try. 9

9. Michael McIlorum:Not much of a factor in limited game time. 5

10. James Graham:Solid up front, running for 100 metres and made 32 tackles. 7.5

11. Brett Ferres: Excellent support play to score a try and did his share in defence. 7

12. Ben Westwood: A try, 91 metres and 25 tackles. 7.5

13. Sean O’Loughlin: Not required to pull out anything spectacular. Made seven runs and 23 tackles. 6.5

14. Rob Burrow:Gave excellent quick service from dummy-half and was ever-present in support. Rewarded with a try. 8

15. Liam Farrell: Limited game time. 5

16. Chris Hill: Made 15 runs for 115 metres in a stirring effort off the bench. 7.5

17. George Burgess: Contributed a try assist and 115 metres. 7


FIJI


1. Kevin Naiqama:Rarely ran the ball and was well contained. 6

2. Marika Koroibete: Threatened on occasion, with 111 metres and three tackle busts. 7

3. Daryl Millard: Unlucky not to have been awarded a try that was denied on video review. Contributed one of Fiji’s two line-break assists. 6

4. Wes Naiqama: Needed to get more involved than just his seven runs. 5.5

5. Semi Radradra: Rewarded for a determined game with a late try. Made a team-high 14 runs. 7

6. Ryan Millard: Threw a peach of a ball to set up Fiji’s first try. 6.5

7. Aaron Groom: Was called on to make a mountain of tackles (21). Ran the ball just twice. 5.5

8. Ashton Sims: Hit hard in defence with 32 tackles. Denied Sam Burgess a try. 7

9. James Storer: Gave fair service from dummy-half and made 32 tackles. 6

10. Petero Civoniceva: Ran for exactly 100 metres in his rugby league career swansong, with a game-high 38 tackles to boot! 8

11. Tariq Sims: Plenty of venom in defence and threw the last pass for Fiji’s opening try. 6.5

12. Jayson Bukuya: Limited impact with just six runs and 49 metres plus 16 tackles. 6

13. Korbin Sims: Strong running the football (13 runs, 114 metres) but missed more tackles than any other player on the park (4). 6

15. Eloni Vunakece:Scored a try in limited game time. 6

16. Peni Botiki: Not much time to impress. 5

17. Vitale Junior Roqica: Made three runs at 10 metres a pop, plus 10 tackles in little game time. 5.5

18. Kane Evans: Two runs and 11 tackles. 5



http://www.nrl.com/england-v-fiji-player-ratings/tabid/10874/newsid/75334/default.aspx
 
Last edited:
England happy with RLWC win over Fiji

By James Martin
AAP
1:11pm Sun 10th November, 2013

Coach Steve McNamara insists England head into the Rugby League World Cup quarter-finals a better team for their group outings after defeating Fiji 34-12.

England claimed their second successive win of the tournament with Ryan Hall at the double as five tries were scored in a devastating 16-minute spell at the start of the second half.

Level at 6-6 at halftime as Ben Westwood and Eloni Vunakece traded tries, England ran riot after the interval with Hall grabbing two and Sam Burgess, Brett Ferres and Rob Burrow scoring one each.

Semi Radradra grabbed a consolation late in the second half for Fiji, who also made the quarter-finals after Australia beat winless Ireland.

England's place in the last eight is assured and coach McNamara is adamant they are growing into the tournament after responding to an opening defeat to Australia with successive wins.

"It was a proper Test match and we always knew it would be against Fiji. Anyone who thinks they will come and walk over this Fijian team will have to think again," said McNamara.

"We defended great in the first half and we had to because Fiji came at us. It was exactly the test we needed at this stage of the tournament.

"We have had no real easy games so far and we have had to work hard in each one. I think that will bode well for us in the quarter-finals now.

"We were a little more direct in this game, which was pleasing to see.

"Fiji played better than I've ever seen. Whoever they face in the quarter-finals is going to have a tough job."

Fiji beat Ireland in their tournament opener but then lost to both McNamara's troops and Tim Sheens' Australia.

They will face either Samoa or France in the quarter-finals, with the winner likely to tackle the Kangaroos in the semis.

Fiji coach Rick Stone admitted England were uncontrollable as they dominated after the break with Hall scoring his fifth and sixth tries of the tournament so far.

"I am pretty proud of the guys and the way we played, especially in the first half," said Stone.

"Obviously it was a really good effort.

"But England were great in the first 20 minutes of the second half and we couldn't contain them. We kept fighting on and gave it all we had.

"We're enjoying the experience. For some of the boys who have never left home before it has certainly been an amazing experience."


[url]http://www.nrl.com/england-happy-with-rlwc-win-over-fiji/tabid/10874/newsid/75330/default.aspx[/URL]
 
I think Ashton deserve more then a 7, best game I've seen him play in ages, or even ever!

I think Fiji is the perfect example of how important a spine is to the team, both Millard and Groom, as much as i love them, aren't that good. Would have loved to see how much better we could have done if both Hayne and Sutton played, because keeping England to 6 in the first half is a hell of an effort!

All our back 3 have been really quite as well, i guess it maybe just be because of not getting early, quality ball from the halves and what not.
 
Korbin needs some improvement if he wants to play regular first-grade I reckon. When he's fired up, you get the aggression & powerful runs in his game but he becomes prone to losing the plot, making mistakes & missing tackles. When he puts his head to it he can be a real hard worker & his stats are really good but you lose the aggressive side to his game & he fades into the background doing his work quietly. Bennett needs to get Korbin to harness both at the same time if he's ever gonna become a real superstar player.
 
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