England, Samoa, Scotland, Papua New Guinea

Samoa proceed unbeaten from pool C after a convincing win over third seeds England to cap off an impressive return to form. With Uale Mai again at the heart of their best efforts, the islanders built a strong lead and England's late rally was in vain.

Playing under a new coach Ben Ryan, England kicked off the day's play against auld enemy Scotland and withstood a gutsy display to win 33-12. Thom Evans and Calum Cussiter gave an added edge to Scotland's play all day but Michael Hills, Andrew Vilk and Daniel Grey were all tireless for England, who also beat Papua New Guinea.

Scotland's encounter against Samoa was one of the matches of the day, Uale Mai and his side cantering to a comfortable lead before Scott Forrest inspired the Scots to a fine comeback. Samoa held on for a 31-26 win but Scotland's new year form revival is remarkable. Earlier the impressive Samoans also beat Papua New Guinea 26-0, Mikaele Pesamino grabbing a brace.

England 33 Scotland 12
Samoa 26 Papua New Guinea 0
England 22 Papua New Guinea 7
Samoa 31 Scotland 26
Scotland 17 Papua New Guinea
England 12 Samoa 19

This article was originally posted on 2-Feb-2007, 11:56 by Hugh Barrow.
Last updated by Hugh Barrow on 2-Feb-2007, 11:58.