England set sights on RLWC2013 following Origin triumph

England's 30-10 victory over the Exiles on Friday saw them lift the International Origin Trophy for the first time, and the result has laid the perfect platform from which Steve McNamara's men can launch their challenge for glory at Rugby League World Cup 2013.

Four tries in 15 first-half minutes handed the hosts a strong advantage at the Halliwell Jones Stadium, with James Roby's 90-metre effort on 24 minutes probably the pick of the bunch.

And, though the Exiles rallied after the break, England had enough in the tank to seal the win.

Leroy Cudjoe's interception try in the dying minutes provided a fitting finale, before captain Kevin Sinfield raised the trophy, much to the delight of the expectant home fans.

And not even a thumb injury sustained in the first half could dampen the Leeds star's spirits following the game.

"The fact we have got out there as a team, won another trophy, got another hit-out under our belts - it's pleasing - and there is so much we can learn from that," said Sinfield.

"We needed to play a game against world-class opposition. We have done that.

"There will be things we have to learn going into Rugby League World Cup 2013, but all in all, I think it's been a really successful week."

Coach McNamara was also left satisfied by his side's performance, but for him the hard work has only just begun, and a trip to Australia in the coming weeks will mark the start of another intense period of preparation ahead of the crunch showdown with Australia at the Millennium Stadium on October 26.

"We know we have got a huge task in front of us at the end of the year," said McNamara.

"We know it is not going to be easy and it is not meant to be easy but we will be prepared for everything that gets thrown at us."

Tickets for the game, which also include admission to the RLWC2013 Opening Ceremony and the match between co-hosts Wales and Italy on the same day, start at just £20 (£10 for concessions). Categories of tickets at £25 (£12), £30 (£15), £40 (£20) and up to the best seats at £99 (£60) are all currently available.

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