More than Pride goes on the line
NORTHERN Pride stars Col Wilkie, Ryan Ghietti and Justin Castellaro have bunkered down for their first World Cup qualification battle for Italy in Belgrade tomorrow (AEST).
The Australian-based Azzurri contingent flew out on Sunday for Serbia, who must win at home to achieve their World Cup dream after a 50-0 loss to Wales last weekend.
Wilkie said the squad was coming together at their “topnotch” training base, although expectations aren’t as high as to the quality of the field where Italy will start their campaign.
“Apparently the field in Belgrade where we’re playing at isn’t very good,” he said.
At least the conditions haven’t been too harsh for the squad with a strong north Queensland flavour – it’s just a swift change of seasons.
“It’s not too bad mate. Similar to winter back home. Just a lot more wind,” Wilkie said.
A win at the 4000-seat Makis Stadium will put Italy in the best position to challenge Wales for top spot in Pool A, which would guarantee them a position at the World Cup, but also mean they miss out on a match at Barlow Park.
Last weekend Russia took a big step towards a match in Cairns with a 40-6 win over Spain, who play Ireland this weekend.
The match will be live streamed on YouTube via the Rugby League European Federation page on Facebook from midnight.