Samoa's Stephen Crichton hit an extra-time drop-goal to seal a 27-26 victory over England on Saturday and book a first-ever place in the Rugby League World Cup final against reigning champions Australia.

A gripping game saw the two sides level on 26 points apiece at the final regulation-time whistle at Arsenal's Emirates Stadium thanks to a late Herbie Farnworth try for England converted by Tommy Makinson.

Samoa, beaten 60-6 by England in the tournament opener, held their nerve in extra-time, Crichton popping over the crucial 'golden-point' drop-goal.

Australia booked their berth in the final, to be held next Saturday at Manchester's Old Trafford, with an equally enthralling 16-14 victory over New Zealand in Leeds on Friday. (AFP)