The Rugby League Blogger

 It's here finally! The World Cup got underway this afternoon at Newcastle with England hosting Samoa. It was an electric atmosphere with a brilliant "tournament welcome" as it's being referred, featuring a great pre-show from the Kaiser Chiefs. England also went into the game at St. James' Park as underdogs, for one of the first times in their illustrious history. However, Samoa are definitely a country on the rise! Team news For England, Young starts on the wing over the experienced Ryan Hall. Young Player of the Year Jack Welsby starts in the halves alongside the experienced George Williams. NRL talent Farnworth, Burgess, Whitehead and Radley come on to the bench. St. Helens duo Morgan Knowles and Matty Lees feature on the bench. Starting Lineup 1. Sam Tomkins, 2. Tommy Makinson, 3. Kallum Watkins, 4. Herbie Farnworth, 14. Dom Young, 6. Jack Welsby, 7. George Williams, 8. Tom Burgess, 9. Micky McIlorum, 18. Chris Hill, 11. Elliott Whitehead, 20. Mike McMeeken, ...

  Finally! It feels like we have been waiting years but the World Cup is finally upon us. It's a tournament that is sure to bring lots of thrills over the next month. After a year's delay, 16 teams will finally flock to the UK to take part in this historic competition. England may be hosts but they are far from favourites, and will face tough competition in Samoa to just finish top of their group! For the first time in a while, the usual 3 of England, Australia and New Zealand look like they have other competition for the title, with both Samoa and Tonga looking strong and flying the flag for the Pacific Islands. Without further ado, let's get into my predictions for Gameweek 1! England v Samoa (St. James' Park, Saturday 15th October, 2.30pm, Group A) What a huge game to start off the tournament! It's a changed up and refreshed England side for this World Cup with head coach Shaun Wane picking a good mix of inexperience and experience. England regulars Ryan Hall and...