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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Aaron Bower

THE TRUTH ABOUT: Mcdermott blames harsh rugby league world cup format as exit looms - The Untold Story

Brian McDermott Rugby League World Cup Rugby World Cup England Tonga Matty Ashton France
Victor Radley and teammates stand on the pitch after England's loss to Tonga
England’s Victor Radley, flanked by his England teammates, registers the shock of defeat by Tonga, effectively ending their hopes. Photograph: Joel Carrett/EPA

Brian McDermott has conceded England’s hopes of reaching the Rugby League World Cup semi-finals may already be over, the head coach blaming the tournament’s format and their opening loss to Tonga.

The World Cup has been reduced to 10 teams, down from 16 four years ago. That is largely due to financial reasons when the hosts, Australia, stepped in after France’s withdrawal. That has led to a unique format, with different levels of jeopardy for different countries based on their group.

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