Matches in Pictures: France 116-6 USA & Wales 70-36 Scotland

Wales joined France in the semi-finals, after defeats for the USA and Scotland ended their hopes of a last-four spot.

10 Nov 2022

Matches in Pictures: France 116-6 USA & Wales 70-36 Scotland

Wales joined France in the semi-finals, after defeats for the USA and Scotland ended their hopes of a last-four spot.

By Milly McEvoy at EIS Sheffield

Wins for France and Wales saw them through to the semi-finals as they defeated the USA and Scotland respectively.

France, who were already assured of a last-four berth, opened proceedings at the EIS Sheffield with an 116-6 win over the USA to knock their opponents out of the World Cup.

Jeremy Bourson scored five first-half tries as the USA struggled to deal with France's kicks down the pitch, while captain Gilles Clausells led from the front with three tries of his own.

The loudest cheer of the game was reserved for Jensen Blaine, a 16-year-old debutant, and Mackenzie Johnson who combined for the USA's only try against the world champions

France were in a relaxed mood as they arrived having sewn up a semi-final spot with two wins from their first two games. Getty Images

The Star-Spangled Banner was belted out by the USA team including Andy Kingsley. Getty Images

Mostefa Abassi matched Bourson with five tries of his own, a handful of the 21 tries scored by France. Getty Images

Jeremy Bourson was fired up as France secured top spot in Group B to set up a clash with Australia, a repeat of the 2017 semi-final. Getty Images

Fine work from Jensen Blaine to Mackenzie Johnson saw the latter score a famous first try for the USA against the defending champions. Getty Images

Andrew Higgins notched 38 points in Wales' 70-36 win over Scotland to see them through to the semi-finals at their opponents' expense.

Higgins crossed four times for Wales, with Scott Trigg-Turner also registering three tries, but Wales did not have it all their own way.

Dan Grant scored four for Scotland as they looked for a way back into the game after Wales enjoyed fast starts to both halves.

Heavy challenges were put in by both teams as they looked for the decisive victory, Scotland captain Mike Mellon coming off worse for wear more than once. Getty Images

John Willans was one of three try scorers for Scotland, also kicking one conversion. Getty Images

Andrew Higgins was named player of the match for his all-round performance. Getty Images

There was time for Wales to celebrate before attention turns to their semi-final against hosts England on Sunday. Getty Images

The Rugby League World Cup promises to be the biggest, best and most inclusive event in the sport’s 127-year history with men’s, women’s and wheelchair teams competing in 61 games across 21 venues throughout England. Tickets are available via rlwc2021.com/tickets