Samoa cancel their UK tour

Samoa have cancelled their three-match tour of England and Ireland just nine days before their first match was due to take place.

The RFL have today announced that the Samoans claim that lack of funding has forced them to cancel the tour which would have seen them play Cumbria, England Knights and Ireland.

An RFL spokesman revealed “The decision by Samoa to withdraw from their proposed tour at this late stage is both surprising and very disappointing.

“As we understand it, their government’s decision to withdraw funding has led to this move. The Samoans were very keen to come to Europe and a lot of hard work and detailed planning had been taking place behind the scenes.

“We are working with the Rugby League International Federation to determine why Samoa changed their minds and we will take what practical steps we can to minimise any damage this decision may cause.”

The RFL are currently trying to find new opponents for the England Knights who play their first match against France a week tomorrow at Leigh Sports Village.