England showed plenty of promise as they suffered a 28-20 defeat at the hands of favourites Australia in the opening game of the World Cup.
The hosts got off to a flying start at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, as tries from Leeds Rhinos winger Ryan Hall and Huddersfield Giants’ star Leroy Cudjoe gave England at 10-0 lead with a conversion from skipper Kevin Sinfield.
After a rusty start the Kangaroos started to find their rhythm and tries from Johnathan Thurston, Greg Bird and Billy Slater ensured the visitors had a 18-10 lead at the break.
Brett Morris extended Australia’s lead after half-time before England were given some hope as forward George Burgess crashed over the line.
A try from Darius Boyd really put the result beyond doubt following a penalty from Thurston.
Wigan Warriors winger Josh Charnley did make the most of an Australian error to cross the line with a few minutes remaining but England could not get another score and will now look to their next encounter against Ireland next Saturday.
England are 13/2 to win the Rugby League World Cup, with Australia 4/11 and holders New Zealand 7/2.
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Tim Sheens is wary of the threat posed by England’s Sam Burgess.
Burgess is to England what Sonny Bill is to New Zealand. He’s the class player. They provide the x factor for those teams.
England head coach Steve McNamara has warned his side to be a ‘whole lot better’ when they open their Rugby League World Cup campaign against Australia.