Nine Saints played for their respective countries in the first round of World Cup Group games over the weekend.
England
Jonny Lomax started whilst James Roby came off the bench in England’s 18-4 loss to Australia. Alex Walmsley missed out on a certain debut after contracting a virus in the build up to the game. Alongside Huddersfield’s Jermaine McGillvary, Roby was stellar in the defeat and will surely have a more prominent role moving forward.
Wales
Saints’ Welsh trio of Regan Grace, Morgan Knowles and Ben Morris all appeared in the game verus PNG. Grace scored a late consolation in what was a disappointing game for the Welsh. Final score Wales 6 PNG 50.
Scotland
Like Wales, Scotland had a disappointing start to their campaign with a 50-4 loss to the much-fancied Tonga. Luke Douglas won his ninth cap in the defeat.
France
Theo Fages captained France in their 29-18 loss to the Lebanon in Group A. It means France now have to beat either Australia or England to have any hopes of qualifying.
Ireland
We’ve saved the best until last! Louie McCarthy-Scarsbrook and Kyle Amor both scored in Ireland’s 36-12 defeat of Italy.
Congrats to all the Saints that played over the weekend.
