England crush France by 82 points to keep Rugby League World Cup hopes alive

A Resounding Triumph In Perth

The sun-drenched turf of HBF Park in Perth witnessed a spectacular display of rugby league prowess on October 24, 2026, as England’s men’s squad delivered a performance that will be remembered for years to come. In a match that was as clinical as it was breathtaking, the national side dismantled France with an emphatic 82-0 victory. This landslide result was not merely a tally on the scoreboard but a vital statement of intent from Brian McDermott’s men, ensuring their journey in the 2026 Rugby League World Cup remains very much alive.

From the opening whistle, the English team surged forward with purpose and coordination. The challenge facing the squad was clear: they needed to secure a significant margin of victory to bolster their points differential, a crucial metric in the complex 10-team competition. By delivering a masterclass in attacking rugby, the players ensured that they not only met the requirement but exceeded expectations, keeping their dreams of reaching the semi-finals firmly within their grasp.

The Stars Of The Show

The offensive output was truly relentless, with England crossing the try line on 14 separate occasions throughout the encounter. Among the standout performances, Herbie Farnworth and Dominic Young stole the limelight, each recording a clinical hat-trick. Their ability to find space and exploit the French defensive line provided the backbone of a high-scoring afternoon that kept the spectators at HBF Park enthralled.

While the try-scorers grabbed the headlines, the precision of Hugo Savala proved equally instrumental to the dominant scoreline. Savala was in impeccable form with the boot, successfully converting 13 of England’s 14 tries. His accuracy under pressure ensured that every foray into the French half was maximized, leaving no points behind and pushing the final score to a staggering 82-0. It was a complete team effort, reflecting the dedication and tactical preparation overseen by head coach Brian McDermott.

History And Tournament Stakes

For those following the fortunes of English rugby league, this victory is steeped in a long-standing tradition of dominance against their European rivals. This match marked the 24th consecutive victory for England over France, a testament to the consistency and quality that the national setup has maintained over several decades. Yet, this particular win felt different, arriving at a critical juncture in the 2026 tournament where every point counts towards a path to the final stages.

The tournament’s structure, which utilizes a partial cross-group format, places a heavy emphasis on scoring margins to determine seeding and progress. Before this match, the path to the semi-finals was beginning to look narrow, but the emphatic nature of this win has dramatically altered the landscape. By significantly boosting their points difference, England has vaulted themselves back into a position of strength, proving that they possess the firepower necessary to compete with the very best teams on the world stage.

Looking Ahead With Optimism

The mood among the travelling supporters and the coaching staff alike is one of renewed confidence. Back home in the North of England, where rugby league serves as a cultural heartbeat, news of the 82-0 victory has been met with widespread celebration. Fans understand that while this win provides a much-needed lifeline, the tournament remains a grueling marathon. However, the momentum generated in Perth provides the ideal platform for the squad to carry into their upcoming fixtures.

Coach Brian McDermott will surely be pleased with how his side navigated the pressure of a must-win scenario. The ability to remain disciplined while putting a high score on the board is a mark of a team that is peaking at the right time. As the competition progresses, the resilience shown against France will serve as a psychological boost, reminding the players that they have the talent to dominate when they execute their game plan correctly. With 14 tries under their belts and a clean sheet to their name, the England rugby league team has sent a clear message to the rest of the field: they are here to compete for the trophy, and they are not ready to go home just yet. The road ahead remains challenging, but after the events of October 24, the path to the semi-finals feels brighter than it has in weeks. The North of England stands behind its heroes, eagerly anticipating the next chapter of this remarkable World Cup campaign.