Tonga wins as Rugby League World Cup enters second round

Summarised from ABC News Australia's report · Updated 24 Oct, 06:50 · Archive

Tonga defeated Lebanon in a Rugby League World Cup match as the tournament entered its second round of play. ABC News Australia reports that the win kicked off what was expected to be a lopsided weekend of matches.

The tournament has become contested between supporters and sceptics. Supporters point to strong ratings and crowds for blockbuster early contests such as Australia against New Zealand and Tonga's match with England, arguing test football is stronger than ever. Critics point to the mounting blowouts when strong teams face weaker sides, questioning the tournament's value.

ABC News Australia notes that hope remains to be found despite the expected mismatches ahead, pointing to Tonga's victory as an example amid what the outlet describes as 'wreckage' of lopsided scorelines.

Read the report

• Live: Kangaroos wrap up World Cup weekend against Fiji after Kiwis survive scareA weekend of Rugby League World Cup blowouts ends in Brisbane, where the Kangaroos are hoping to put Fiji to the sword. Follow live.ABC News Australia · 25 Oct, 07:55
• In the wreckage of World Cup blowouts, hope is where you find itTonga's win over Lebanon kicked off what's expected to be a lopsided weekend in the Rugby League World Cup but there's still something to be gained amid the blow-outs.ABC News Australia · 23 Oct, 20:37

In this story: Tonga · Lebanon · Australia · New Zealand · England

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