‘Great eight’ look set for knockout phase

THE last eight of the World Cup is becoming more apparent following the weekend series of games.

Ireland, Australia and England yesterday joined New Zealand, Wales and France in the quarter-finals after two pulsating games.

England's laboured victory over the combative Samoans ensured the cup co-favourites were into the last eight and all but guaranteed they will top the group with just minnows Uruguay to come.