Internationals / maxliu / 05 November 2008 / Leave a comment

One early, eager punter backed Samoa at [1.01] before the Wolfhounds devoured them in Sydney...

Ireland were matched at a high of [14.0] as they stunned Samoa to record an historic win at the Rugby League World Cup.

The 34-16 triumph, which defied Samoa's odds of [1.07], sent the Irish to the top of their World Cup pool and sets up a qualification decider against Fiji next Monday.

Prior to the tournament, Ireland were expected to struggle with tough encounters against Samoa as well as Tonga - who they were unlucky to lose their previous game too - but they hit the ground running here, establishing a 14-0 lead inside the 19 minutes.

Wigan star Pat Richards kicked four penalties to stem the Samoan fightback and ran in three tries to make for a personal tally of 22 points.

If Ireland defeat Fiji on Monday they will face tournament favourites Australia in the semi-final. That would mean that they would find themselves in the unlikely position of being the world's fourth ranked team at the end of the World Cup - a remarkable achievement for a side made predominantly by players from the lower British leagues.

Despite last night's victory Ireland remain [400.00] to win the competition with England [17.0]. Australia are [1.14].

Samoa matched at 1.07 (though smaller sums done at lower, with one early, eager punter having £5 at 1.01!)

Ireland win 34-16