Rugby League World Cup opening ceremony falls flat before England thrash Samoa

Ricky Wilson of The Kaiser Chiefs entertains the crowd during a delay to the Rugby League World Cup. Photo / Getty

The opening game of the Rugby League World Cup was delayed due to technical issues at St James' Park which saw the pre-tournament entertainment being left to run the pitch instead of belt out a crowd favourite.

Kaiser Chiefs frontman Ricky Wilson had to improvise after the PA system failed during their set in the opening ceremony ahead of the England-Samoa clash - before they could sing their 2007 hit 'Ruby'.

"It wasn't the start we wanted but we would like to thank fans for their patience and for continuing to celebrate the teams and the tournament," an official statement said.

There was mixed responses from league fans with some calling it 'embarrassing' while others were more understanding.

An official statement from #RLWC2021 pic.twitter.com/wRMbWT9ksD

— Rugby League World Cup 2021 (@RLWC2021) October 15, 2022

On the biggest stage, yes highly embarrassing and disappointing across all levels, add the frustrating intermittent loss of tv transmission coverage of this England v Samoa game to Australia,including the blow out score mark this huge occasion as forgettable.Tick to England win✅

— WoMac (@MakiWomac) October 15, 2022

Nothing to apologise for. It's happened, but let's appreciate the competition taking place on the pitch for the next five weeks.#RLWC2021

— Sp0rtz_F@n (@Sp0rtz_Fan) October 15, 2022

In the game, England thrashed Samoa with a statement victory in Newcastle.

The hosts ran in 10 tries in the 60-6 victory with a big second half effort after going into halftime up 18-6.

Dominic Young and Elliott Whitehead had doubles while Tommy Makinson kicked eight conversions and two penalties to go with a try.

England's Dominic Young dives in to score his side's third try against Samoa. Photo / AP