Tryline Watchalong 8

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This week's watchalong blog comes with a warning...it may bring back painful memories. This game is, without question, the best game of rugby league I have ever seen. It had stunning individual performances, incredible skill and a heart-breaking ending. As I mentioned on Twitter, this was the first time I have watched this game back, even highlights, since it happened.

If you're over it yet, here is our look back at New Zealand vs England, the 2013 Rugby League World Cup Semi Final.

Haka
No rugby league occasion featuring the Kiwis is completed without it!

A great start for England
England struck first, as the two front-rowers combined to send Sean O' Loughlin over for the first try.

Sam Burgess was starting to wreak havoc and England soon an earned a kickable penalty.

A Kiwi Resurgence
New Zealand soon hit back, with a piece of skill from Dean Whare that must be seen to be believed!

And right on the stroke of half time, New Zealand drew level.

The Surge Continues 
New Zealand were in their groove by now and as the second half started, they had England on the ropes.

A penalty then extended the lead to a converted try.

England Won't Quit
This would be the point that other England sides would have faltered, but not this one. Kevin Sinfield especially important with two try assists, to put England ahead once more.


What If?
England then had two big chances to finish the game and secure their place in their first World Cup Final since 1995, but couldn't take them!


The Sucker Punch 
England had one more  set to hold out, but Shaun Johnson's magical footwork struck the fatal, most cruel of blows.

We hope you enjoyed, as far as possible, our reflection on one of the finest matches our sport has seen. If you did, then why not check out our ever-growing watchalong archives?

There will be another watchalong next Saturday at 7:45 on our Twitter page, with a wrap-up blog the next day!

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