Italy grabs last Rugby League World Cup 2013 spot
On Sunday, October 30, Italy booked its place amongst the final pick of fourteen teams for the World Cup 2013 to be played in the United Kingdom, after drawing 19-19 against Lebanon.
With this draw Italy will end up in group C of the World Cup, along with Scotland and Tonga. Italy clinched its slot all because of the finishing minute drop goal from Ryan Ghietti which had evened out the scores. Meanwhile, the disappointed Lebanese side
will be sitting out the World Cup Campaign the second time, despite remaining unbeaten during the qualifiers.
The first time it happened to Lebanon was back in 2008, when they had remained unbeaten against Ireland in the qualifier which had paved way for the Irish side to walk into the world Cup that year.
While describing the joy of the qualification, Italian coach, Carlo Napolitano, said, "My overwhelming feeling is one of joy and relief. When Lebanon slotted their drop goal over to lead, I slumped into my chair. It was a surreal moment. I thought it was
1999 again when we lost to the Cedars in a World Cup qualifier. I called for a short kick-off and we managed to get the ball back and equalise. I can hardly believe it. In terms of what the result means to rugby league in Italy, it's hard gauge at the moment.”
He also added that he is hoping for public support which will allow their side to grow tremendously until 2013, which is still a lot of time for them to build up their game.
The Italian side was led by Anthony Minichiello as tries came in from Ben Falcone, Ben Stewart and Josh Mantellato, who had booted three goals.
Lebanese side’s tries were scored by Adnan El Zabedieh, Ray Moujali and James Boustan where as Couri scored three goals.
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