Wheelchair Rugby League Ashes: England Triumphs Over Australia in First Test

In an exciting match on the Gold Coast, England mounted a comeback to defeat Australia 56-28 in the first Wheelchair Rugby League Ashes Test. The English team scored five consecutive tries in the latter part of the game, showcasing their resilience.

According to skysports.com, the match saw England trailing 28-26 midway through the second half, following a remarkable long-range try from Australia's Cory Cannane. However, the tourists swiftly turned the tide, scoring five times in the last 23 minutes.

Rob Hawkins of the Halifax Panthers was a standout player, achieving a hat-trick and accumulating 20 points, including four successful conversions, two of which were scored in the final three minutes.

England, who initially raced to a 16-0 lead in the first eight minutes, will aim for a series victory in the second and final Test scheduled for Sunday at the same venue (5am UK time).

Leeds Rhinos' Nathan Collins was the first to score for England, followed by tries from Joe Coyd and Hawkins, contributing to a commanding start. Although Australia fought back with efforts from captain Lewis King and Collins, they eventually fell behind as Dan Anstey and Cannane made pivotal contributions for the Wheelaroos.