“An utterly pointless game” fans rage after injuries in England fixture – How social media reacted to last night’s international

Last night England’s World Cup preparation was stifled by defeat to the Combined Nations All Stars. Despite a brace of tries from Wigan’s Liam Farrell, England suffered a 26-24 loss leaving question marks over their chances in this Autumn’s tournament.

There were plenty of worried club supporters last night. Leeds lost Ash Handley, Wigan could be without John Bateman for the next few weeks thanks to the game and Huddersfield’s Aidan Sezer went off injured as did Hull FC’s Jake Connor. Plenty weren’t pleased.

Injuries to Connor, Handley, Bateman, Sezer. Bet a few clubs aren’t happy with that.

— Rhinos Faithful 💙💛 (@RhinosFaithful) June 25, 2021

Bateman picking up an injury in an utterly pointless game

— mattyporter (@mattyporter1) June 25, 2021

Great win followed up by a Jake Connor injury from a pointless game that didn't need to be played. Great..

— Jamie Tomlin (@JamieTomlin_) June 25, 2021

One of the best performers on the night was Jake Connor. Despite being English, the Hull FC fullback lined up for the Combined Nations and shone making many wonder whether he should’ve featured for England.

@TheRFL @SuperLeague Jake Connor 1-0 Shaun Wane.

— @stozza1981 (@stozza1981) June 25, 2021

Matautia when collecting the mom award; we had some amazing players, Jake Connor is one of the best in the competition!!

Cheeky dig!?

— Tim (@Wyvillian) June 25, 2021

Great win followed up by a Jake Connor injury from a pointless game that didn't need to be played. Great..

— Jamie Tomlin (@JamieTomlin_) June 25, 2021

Liam Farrell was outstanding with a pair of tries however he received some unwanted attention on twitter.

https://twitter.com/clockydmac/status/1408529757466238980?s=20

However, Farrell’s spectacular first try made some question Connor’s defence.

The way he got beat by Jason Quarquare didn't look the best but the kid has some pace…
The way he got beat by Liam Farrell was just appalling for a fullback wanting to play in a World Cup.

— Mattcasfan (@mattcasfan) June 25, 2021

Nonetheless, Wigan fans were proud of Farrell and the effort he produced.

Liam Farrell is just goals ❤❤

— Jenny 🍒⚪ (@jenny_guy) June 25, 2021

Paul McShane on debut came up with another highlight of the game when he chased down run away winger Jermaine McGillvary.

Some days I lose faith in rugby league. Then up steps Paul McShane, chases down a winger in full flight, and faith is restored. Hero.

— Jonny Hughes (@GoProJonny) June 25, 2021

Paul McShane is class👏#EnglandRL

— Jason Stevenson (@JasonStevo11) June 25, 2021

Great tackle Paul McShane!

— Ian Collett 🍒⚪️🏉 (@PieEatinGooner) June 25, 2021

The game served as a reminder of the difficulties international rugby faces in the current climate. It led some to believe that the World Cup should be postponed this year.

I’ll be honest and I doubt that World Cup is going to go ahead this year and will be postponed until next year.

— Rhinos Faithful 💙💛 (@RhinosFaithful) June 25, 2021