**2020 World Club Challenge**
**Definition**
The 2020 World Club Challenge was an annual rugby league match contested between the champions of the National Rugby League (NRL) and the Super League. It featured the Sydney Roosters, winners of the 2019 NRL Grand Final, and St Helens, winners of the 2019 Super League Grand Final.
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## 2020 World Club Challenge
The 2020 World Club Challenge was the 28th edition of the annual rugby league contest between the reigning champions of the National Rugby League (NRL) in Australia and the Super League in the United Kingdom. The match was played on 22 February 2020 at the Totally Wicked Stadium in St Helens, England. The Sydney Roosters, the 2019 NRL premiers, faced St Helens, the 2019 Super League champions, in a highly anticipated clash that showcased the best of club rugby league from both hemispheres.
The World Club Challenge is a prestigious fixture in the rugby league calendar, pitting the top teams from the two premier rugby league competitions against each other to determine the unofficial world club champion. The 2020 edition continued the tradition of fostering international club competition and was notable for its competitive intensity and the high skill level displayed by both teams.
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### Background
#### History of the World Club Challenge
The World Club Challenge originated in 1976 as a one-off match between the British champions and the Australian premiers. Over the years, it evolved into an annual event, typically held in the United Kingdom, although there have been exceptions. The competition serves as a bridge between the two dominant rugby league competitions globally, the NRL and the Super League, and is regarded as a measure of supremacy between the two leagues.
The Sydney Roosters and St Helens are two of the most successful clubs in their respective competitions. The Roosters, based in Sydney, Australia, have a rich history with multiple premierships, while St Helens, based in the north of England, are one of the most decorated clubs in British rugby league.
#### Teams’ Road to the 2020 World Club Challenge
– **Sydney Roosters**: The Roosters secured their place in the 2020 World Club Challenge by winning the 2019 NRL Grand Final, defeating the Canberra Raiders 14-8. This victory marked their 15th premiership and their second consecutive title, highlighting their dominance in the NRL.
– **St Helens**: St Helens qualified by winning the 2019 Super League Grand Final, overcoming Salford Red Devils 23-6. This triumph was their first Super League title since 2014 and their 13th overall, reasserting their status as a powerhouse in British rugby league.
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### Venue and Date
The match was held at the Totally Wicked Stadium in St Helens, England, on 22 February 2020. The stadium, home to St Helens, has a seating capacity of approximately 18,000 and is known for its modern facilities and passionate fan base. Hosting the World Club Challenge at the home ground of the Super League champions is a common practice, providing a home advantage and a vibrant atmosphere.
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### Match Details
#### Pre-Match Expectations
The 2020 World Club Challenge was highly anticipated, with both teams boasting strong squads and recent championship success. The Sydney Roosters entered the match as slight favorites due to their recent dominance in the NRL and the presence of several star players, including Cooper Cronk, James Tedesco, and Luke Keary. St Helens, however, were confident playing on home soil and had a well-balanced team featuring key players such as James Roby, Luke Thompson, and Tommy Makinson.
#### Team Line-ups
– **Sydney Roosters Starting XIII**:
1. Brett Morris
2. Daniel Tupou
3. Joseph Manu
4. James Tedesco
5. Latrell Mitchell
6. Luke Keary
7. Cooper Cronk (Captain)
8. Jared Waerea-Hargreaves
9. Jake Friend
10. Victor Radley
11. Boyd Cordner
12. Angus Crichton
13. Siosiua Taukeiaho
– **St Helens Starting XIII**:
1. Tommy Makinson
2. Regan Grace
3. Jonny Lomax
4. Matty Lees
5. Mark Percival
6. Luke Thompson
7. James Roby (Captain)
8. Alex Walmsley
9. Luke Gale
10. Kevin Naiqama
11. Jon Bennison
12. Morgan Knowles
13. Paul Wellens
#### Match Summary
The match was a tightly contested affair, with both teams demonstrating strong defensive structures and tactical kicking. The Sydney Roosters started strongly, using their experience and skill to gain early territory and possession. However, St Helens responded well, capitalizing on home advantage and crowd support to keep the game competitive.
The first half saw a series of exchanges, with both sides scoring tries and penalties. The Roosters’ backline was particularly effective in breaking the defensive line, while St Helens relied on their forwards to gain momentum and create opportunities.
In the second half, the intensity increased as both teams sought to assert dominance. The Roosters’ fitness and composure under pressure became evident, allowing them to control the tempo and execute set plays effectively. St Helens continued to fight hard, but errors and missed opportunities ultimately hindered their chances.
The match concluded with the Sydney Roosters securing a narrow victory, underscoring their status as the world’s best club team at that time.
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### Final Score
– **Sydney Roosters**: 20
– **St Helens**: 12
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### Key Players and Performances
– **Cooper Cronk (Sydney Roosters)**: The veteran halfback was instrumental in directing play and managing the game’s pace. His kicking game and decision-making were crucial in the Roosters’ victory.
– **James Tedesco (Sydney Roosters)**: The fullback’s attacking runs and defensive work rate were standout features, contributing significantly to the team’s success.
– **James Roby (St Helens)**: The captain and hooker led by example, providing leadership and resilience throughout the match.
– **Tommy Makinson (St Helens)**: The winger was a constant threat on the edges, scoring tries and making significant meters.
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### Significance and Impact
The 2020 World Club Challenge reinforced the Sydney Roosters’ dominance in world rugby league, marking their second consecutive World Club Challenge title. The match highlighted the competitive gap between the NRL and Super League, with the Roosters’ professionalism and experience proving decisive.
For St Helens, the match was a valuable experience against top-tier opposition and served as a benchmark for future success. The event also contributed to the ongoing efforts to promote rugby league internationally and strengthen ties between the Australian and British competitions.
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### Media Coverage and Reception
The match received extensive media coverage in both Australia and the United Kingdom, with broadcasters and rugby league analysts praising the quality of play and the competitive nature of the contest. Fans and commentators noted the high skill level and physicality, as well as the sportsmanship displayed by both teams.
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### Legacy
The 2020 World Club Challenge remains a significant event in the rugby league calendar, exemplifying the sport’s international appeal and the rivalry between the NRL and Super League. The Sydney Roosters’ victory added to their legacy as one of the most successful rugby league clubs globally.
The match also set the stage for future World Club Challenges, although subsequent editions were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted international sporting events worldwide.
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## See Also
– National Rugby League (NRL)
– Super League
– Rugby League World Club Challenge
– Sydney Roosters
– St Helens R.F.C.
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## References
*Note: This article is based on publicly available information and historical records of the 2020 World Club Challenge.*
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**META_DESCRIPTION:**
The 2020 World Club Challenge was a rugby league match between the Sydney Roosters and St Helens, held in England to determine the world club champion. The Roosters won 20-12 in a competitive and closely fought contest.