A MUCH-CHANGED England side stretched out to an ultimately comfortable win over France to all but qualify for the Rugby League World Cup knockout phase.
As promised, head coach Shaun Wane rang the changes for the game at a sold-out University of Bolton Stadium but Warrington Wolves’ George Williams kept his place in the halves, with Salford’s Marc Sneyd partnering him.
Indeed, Williams was named man of the match as the host nation overcame a wobble to record a victory.
Having blasted into an early 18-0 lead thanks to two Ryan Hall tries and one from Luke Thompson, England threatened to let their advantage slip as the French crossed twice before half time through Arthur Mourgue and Eloi Pelissier.
However, Wane’s men saw off the trouble as Dom Young touched down twice with Elliot Whitehead and Victor Radley also scoring.
Arthur Romano crossed for a late consolation for France, but England were ultimately comfortable winners.
More to follow
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