England needed to record near three figures to keep their extremely slim semi-final hopes alive, and they did, thumping a hapless French outfit 82-0.

A hilarious moment has unfolded during Samoa’s post-match press conference with the lights suddenly going out in the middle of the room.

Australia's women's team is expected to continue a second round of lopsided scores as they take on England at the Rugby League World Cup. Follow live.

Follow live updates as England and France clash in a Rugby League World Cup contest in Perth. Stuff sports reporters

Their Port Moresby clash was in the balance until the Samoans found their stride in the second half. Stuff sports reporters

Papua New Guinea will play host to another unbeaten side in Samoa this afternoon with the winner to likely progress to the semi finals.

Michael Cheika has hit out at the Rugby League Players Association and International Rugby League, claiming he was denied a request for Lebanon to play a warm-up game going into the World Cup.

They grew up playing together, spent years as teammates and remain close mates to this day.

Tonga and Samoa, once regarded as minnows of rugby league, are now top-drawer attractions at the Rugby League World Cup.

Tonga'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.