“Absolute load of tosh this game” – how social media has reacted to the England-All Stars fixture

It’s been one of the most talked about games, but the England fixture against the All Stars is hitting the headlines for all the wrong reasons.

With Super League sides already facing troubling times in terms of fielding 17 players, the England-All Nations game on Friday night is set to stretch some clubs to their absolute limits. But, how has social media reacted?

One was confused as to how two English players – Jake Connor and Jermaine McGillvary – were included in the Combined Nations All Stars squad.

I'm confused why are Jake Connor and Jermaine McGillvary in there, and no saints players?

— Steve Langton (@langton301) June 22, 2021

Another was confused as to why Championship players had been picked.

“All stars” consisting with championship players…

— Matthew 🍻 (@matthewxsutton) June 22, 2021

St Helens had no players in the All Stars squad, much to the bewilderment of some fans.

So, no Saints players despite the fact that their game against Hull KR has been postponed due to Covid at HKR side whilst 8 taken from the Hull v Giants game taking place at the same time…Joke.

— Rob Notman (@Robnotman) June 22, 2021

That sentiment was echoed by another fan.

Saints should be ashamed that they’ve not released players to this sqaud.

— Scott 👨🏻‍💻🤦🏻‍♂️ (Him/He) (@fusionet24) June 22, 2021

Another fan described it as yet another error of the RFL’s ways.

https://twitter.com/doctor_gedwards/status/1407335593168752647?s=20

One Super League supporter laughed at the English equivalent to State of Origin.

https://twitter.com/innsman/status/1407325960005902337?s=20

One fan couldn’t believe that England were playing at the same time as the rest of Super League.

https://twitter.com/mikeym366/status/1407324177997127686?s=20

Another called the squad “baffling”.

I see 3 England players. How long can this sport go on alienating its supporters?

Just embarrassing. Would you see this anywhere else?

— Chuck (@CharlesSpoonTW) June 22, 2021

https://twitter.com/Steady2192/status/1407357240831627272?s=20

A different Twitter user came up with another idea instead.

Should've just had England vs France

— .nthony Vescio (@vesh88) June 22, 2021

Despite this, some people were actually excited for the game.

Looking forward to it

— Mike Rojo (@rojomicko) June 22, 2021

Another supporter was looking forward to watching some players in action.

A truly competitive squad if they can get. Some great talent. Nathan Peats for me could be a standout 🙏🇦🇺❤️💚🐰

— Leagh McGettigan (@LeaghMcgettigan) June 22, 2021

Another was looking forward to seeing some different combinations.

Looking forward to this, if they gel this’ll be a cracking and powerful side for England to test some combinations. McGilvray n Connor with a axe to grind. Shame the HKR players aren’t available or Regan Grace.#RugbyLeague #Eng https://t.co/ojhEPILNxJ

— Ed Easter (@easter_ed) June 22, 2021