England have claimed the first win of the 2008 Rugby League World Cup, defeating a spirited Papua New Guinea 32-22 in Townsville. Papua New Guinea led 16-12 at half time.

England dominated the early exchanges and opened the scoring through winger Ade Gardner in the 12th minute. The sideline conversion from Kevin Sinfield put England up 6-0. Papua New Guinea responded seven minutes later with Rod Griffin running over Paul Wellens to level the game at 6-all.

The match continued for another 10 minutes with the Kumuls looking the better side until England