• Rugby League

Cook Islands make history, Scotland advance for first time

ESPN staff
November 10, 2013
The Cook Islands enjoyed their first ever World Cup win with victory over Wales © Getty Images
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On the same day Scotland qualified for the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time, Wales bowed out with a third successive defeat as they were narrowly beaten 28-24 by the Cook Islands at The Gnoll in Neath.

Both Wales and the Cook Islands went into the match knowing the United States had already secured a place in the last eight after finishing top of Group D.

However, it proved to be a landmark day for the Cook Islands; their triumph gave them a first World Cup victory in six attempts.

"That was great. It was Cook Islands first World Cup victory and it was great to finish on a high note," boss David Farleigh told BBC Sport.

Wales suffered defeats to both Italy and the USA in their earlier group games, ending any chance of advancing through to the next stage.

Tonga came through a tough tie with Italy to claim a 16-0 win, which was enough to send Scotland through to the last eight for the first time in their history. Steve McCormack's side enjoyed wins over Tonga and Italy as well as a draw with the USA, and will now face current world champions New Zealand in the quarter-finals.

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