Brian McDermott vows to rectify England's errors after World Cup loss to Tonga
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 17, 2026, 2:27 PM
Last updated Oct 17, 2026
England's Rugby League World Cup campaign faces challenges after a 30-12 defeat to Tonga in their opener on October 17 in Perth. Coach Brian McDermott cited errors such as handling mistakes and penalties as pivotal to the loss. Despite the defeat, he believes the team can improve, emphasizing the need to win their next two matches against France and Papua New Guinea to remain in contention for the semi-finals. Tonga celebrated their victory, marking their first success against England in seven encounters.
- •England lost 30-12 to Tonga in their World Cup opener.
- •McDermott highlights key errors as crucial to the defeat.
- •England has not won a match since November 2024.
- •Next games against France and Papua New Guinea are vital for progression.
- •Tonga's victory ended a six-match losing streak against England.
- 2:27 PMYahoo Sports — McDermott seeks fix as England fight to save their World Cup
"Brian McDermott says he can fix the errors that led to England's Rugby League World Cup defeat by Tonga - but is it already too late?
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