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 failedduring 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.
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✅
