Poor England suffer another Australia humiliation
Australia beat England 78-0 in their women’s Rugby League World Cup Group A match in Perth, exposing a gulf between the sides that appears undiminished since England’s 90-4 defeat in Las Vegas in March 2025. England were error-prone and passive, while the reigning champions extended their long record of dominance and strengthened their position in the group.
Australia led 36-0 at half-time and scored 14 tries; Jocelyn Kelleher, who was eligible for England, scored twice and kicked nine goals for 26 points. England also lost second-row Eva Hunter to an ankle injury, while Jasmin Strange was already unavailable with a serious knee injury. England’s qualification is expected to hinge on next Friday’s match against Samoa.
In short
- Australia defeated England 78-0 in Perth.
- Jocelyn Kelleher scored 26 points for Australia.
- England’s qualification may depend on facing Samoa next Friday.
Explained simply
The Rugby League World Cup is an international competition in which national teams play for the sport’s top title. In the women’s tournament, England and Australia are among the leading sides, and Australia are the reigning champions.
Australia have a long record of success in women’s rugby league, while England are seeking to close the gap. Players can sometimes qualify for more than one country through their family background; Jocelyn Kelleher was eligible to represent either side.
Group matches determine which teams progress, so England’s game against Samoa is important to their chances of reaching the next stage. Injuries can also affect a team’s options during a tournament.