Here’s what you might have missed overnight at the 2021 Rugby League World Cup in England.
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Papua New Guinea have secured a spot in the World Cup quarterfinals after beating Wales 36-0 in Doncaster on Tuesday.
In driving rain, PNG ran in six tries, with doubles to Nixon Putt and young-gun Jimmy Ngutlik, keeping a brave Wales outfit scoreless in the final match of the group stage.
Also overnight, Sydney Roosters prop Jared Waerea-Hargreaves is set to miss New Zealand's quarterfinal clash with Fiji after being charged over a high tackle in last weekend's match against Ireland. Lebanon forward Jaxson Rahme has been cleared to play against Australia in the quarterfinal at Huddersfield after receiving a caution for dangerous contact in the Cedars win against Jamaica.
The main takeaways
- PNG have finished the round games as Group D runners-up to Tonga and will play England in their quarter-final on Saturday.
- Kumuls flyer Jimmy Ngutlik was a sight to behold in full cry, producing arguably the try and tackle of the match.
- Wales failed to break their streak of losses, having not recorded a win in the World Cup since reaching the semi-finals in 2000.
Star performers
PNG winger Jimmy Ngutlik scored a double for the Kumuls, including a superb 60-metre try to announce himself on the world stage. The 21-year-old flyer was an excitement machine in just his second match in the black, red and gold and could be a huge threat against England on Saturday. 27-year-old forward Nixon Putt was also a standout in the winning side, barnstorming his way over the line twice throughout the match.
What the result means
The win sets Papua New Guinea up for a quarterfinal clash against England on Saturday while Wales will head home, having failed to pick up a win at the tournament.
Tepend up for the England challenge
Recap
- Match report: Papua New Guinea book quarter-final spot with big win
- Key injuries: Chester Butler (HIA)
Match Highlights: Kumuls v Wales