England vs Samoa betting tips: Hosts might just edge tight Rugby League World Cup opener

England kick off the Rugby League World Cup at St James' Park on Saturday afternoon. Australia are the favourites to retain their crown. New Zealand are their nearest challengers at 3/1. Samoa are third-favourites in Group A. England have won all eight previous meetings between these sides. Samoa haven't progressed out of the pool stage of a World cup since 1995. St Helens all-rounder Jack Welsby looks a key player for the hosts. England beat Fiji 9-0 in their only warm up game.

England take on Samoa in the Rugby League World Cup opener. England can't afford to lose the physical battle early on. Samoa's team contains many top-class forwards. Shaun Wane's side are betting on the handicap. Samoa is betting against the odds. Samoans are going into the tournament undercooked.

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