The pool matches of the Universities Rugby League World Cup have come to a close with the semi-finals to be played at Griffith University on Tuesday and Wednesday nights. It’s must win time for all teams with the Finals to be played on Saturday July 19 at Langlands Park, Stones Corner.

Tuesday 15th July
Griffith University Nathan Campus
Plate Semi-Finals

Greece v Ireland kick off 5.00pm
Greece were unlucky to finish 2nd in their pool after going down to England by 2 points. They’ll be hoping to take out the plate cup though with a strong performance against the Irish.

Ireland on the other hand showed a lot of promise against Wales in their first round match. This should be a tough encounter for both teams who show a lot of spirit in their performances.

Scotland v France kick off 7.00pm
France would have been hoping for a better performance against Wales in the match which decided 2nd place in their pool. The French unit is quick and agile when compared to the boisterous Scottish forwards.

Scotland still hasn’t registered a point in their first three matches and will be looking to barge over the French pack in the opening encounters.

Wednesday 16th July
Griffith University, Nathan Campus
Cup Semi-Finals

England v New Zealand kick off 5.00pm
England is coming off a demanding win against the Scots while New Zealand is still playing well below their capability. This match should be a brutal affair with both sides having a lot of size all over the park.

It’s semi-final time and the pressure is on. New Zealand is expecting to win this, but if they don’t play to their full potential the English will certainly pounce.

7.00pm
Australia v Wales kick off 5.00pm
Australia is by far the form team of the competition. Posting a whopping 136 points in three matches without conceding one is a very decent feat. They’re big, quick, know how to score points and will tackle all day.

Wales come into this match as rank underdogs but they’ve shown they’re a tightly coached unit. The discipline this team possesses is by far the best in the tournament. They’re dangerous out wide and if they can contain the Aussie forwards then this will definitely be Australia’s toughest match so far.