Bronze medal for England ace Beth

Beth Sutcliffe - Bronze medal

CHADDERTON’S Beth Sutcliffe had to settle for a bronze medal at the Women’s Rugby League World Cup.

Thatto Heath star Sutcliffe (pictured) played in England’s 42-6 victory against minnows France in their final group fixture, but thanks to earlier defeats against cup holders New Zealand and Australia, the host nation were forced into the third-place play-off decider against the French again last Saturday.

England won again, this time 54-0, with Sutcliffe again shining in the forwards.

England head coach Chris Chapman, after what was his final game in charge, said: “Despite the results the tournament has been great – I’ve really enjoyed it.

“We’ve had a great group of girls to work with and I’ll miss them.”