Mystery of missing fans as Headingley sets women's rugby league record

A total attendance of 8,621 watched England beat Brazil before a showdown between Canada and Papua New Guinea. That was a record for a women’s game in the northern hemisphere, but well down what had been expected.

Pre-match predictions suggested a gate of up to 16,000 and an RLWC2021 statement said: “We would have liked the total attendance to have been higher, especially with over 11,000 tickets sold and issued, but we can’t account for those who buy a ticket and do not attend.”

The statement added: “Today’s double-header at Headingley attracted a record crowd for a stand-alone rugby league event taking place in the northernhemisphere, more than doubling any previous record.

"The atmosphere was fantastic with many people, young and old, experiencing their first ever rugby league game live, ensuring this is [a] truly transformative moment for the sport.”