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Next Game N/A
Last Game Greece 22 - Malta 24
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Plate smashing and Rugby League |
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First there was Tommy Raudonikis's face slapping.
Now Michael Korkidas has introduced plate smashing as Rugby League's latest pre-game ritual.
Ahead of tonight's international against Malta the newly-formed Greek team this week embarked on some native bonding.
Souvlakis replaced snags and ouzo was substituted for beer as the 20-men squad prepared in plate-smashing style.
When the ceramic dust had settled Greek captain Korkidas said it was an honour to lead the game's latest national side.
"We all speak Greek at home here we're pretty full on" the former Rooster said.
Despite Rugby League being virtually unknown in Greece a strong Hellenic flavour permeates the NRL.
Premiership stars John Skandalis and Braith Anasta both qualify to play in tomorrow's match but neither are available.
Nevertheless Korkidas said the ultimate aim was to boost awareness of the sport in the homeland.
"When I go to Greece to visit relatives I have to explain to them that it's like American Football without the helmets and shoulder pads" he said.
But even if they don't conquer Greece many of the players have defied stereotypes and parental pressures to play in tonight's game.
"I was always pushed to play soccer" said Korkidas who grew up in Brighton-Le-Sands. "My parents were a but upset when I decided to make Rugby League my career."
And just to prove the team is one big, happy family three bothers will also line up. Like more illustrious Johns siblings the Kouparitsas boys Nick, George and Kosta played footy against one another.
"We had to go down to the oval because mum didn't like us messing up the front lawn" said Nick 21.
A crowd of 4,000 is expected tonight.
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