SYDNEY, Australia — Watson Boas scored two minutes from full time to clinch Papua New Guinea’s 14-6 win over Ireland at the Rugby League World Cup on Sunday, likely propelling the Kumuls into the quarterfinals with co-hosts Australia and New Zealand. Italy and Fiji kept their playoff hopes alive with emphatic wins in Group D and will meet on Friday to decide which team progresses from that group. The Italians have a 1-1 record after their 42-6 win over the United States while Fiji are unbeaten after a record 72-6 win over hapless Wales. Australia beat France 52-6 after its 18-4 win over England and New Zealand beat Scotland 74-6 after previously beating Samoa 38-8. Tonga followed its 50-4 first round win over Scotland with a 32-18 win over Pacific rivals Samoa in a match that was marred by violence between rival fans.

Source: National Post November 05, 2017 08:26 UTC