Samoa Loss Still Hurts: George Williams Opens Up About World Cup Heartbreak
The World Cup final. You know the one. The game that almost was. The moment where Samoa, the underdog, took the world by storm and came oh-so-close to taking the trophy. We're talking, of course, about the heart-wrenching loss to Australia in the 2021 Rugby League World Cup.
Samoa's Rise and Fall
It was a wild ride. Samoa, a team that had been overlooked for years, had suddenly become the most exciting team in the tournament. The sheer passion they brought to the field, the way they played with such intensity and unity, it was inspiring to watch. And that final? It was a nail-biter. Samoa, they almost did it! They were so close!
Williams' Emotional Rollercoaster
One of the key players in Samoa's run was George Williams. The former Wigan star, who had made the switch to the NRL just before the tournament, had been a revelation for Samoa. His flair and skill lit up the competition. But, like all the other Samoan players, he was left devastated after that final.
"I'm still hurting," Williams admitted in a recent interview. "It was such a tough loss. We put so much into that tournament, we had a real belief, and to come so close, it's just..." his voice trailed off, a hint of sadness in his eyes.
A Moment of Pride
Despite the loss, Williams was quick to point out the positives. "We made history. We showed the world what Samoa can do," he said. "The support we got back home was incredible. It was something special."
Looking Ahead
Williams is now back in the NRL, playing for the Canberra Raiders. But his time with Samoa has changed him. "It made me realize what rugby league is all about," he said. "It's about family, about pride, about representing something bigger than yourself."
Williams may be back in the NRL, but the memories of that World Cup campaign will stay with him forever. And while the final loss still hurts, there's no doubt that his experience with Samoa was a game-changer. He's a better player, a better person, for it.