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Amidst the euphoria of what was an enthralling opening match between England and Australia, the second match of tournament has slipped under the excitement radar of many Australians.
Televised live, Wales took on World Cup debutants Italy in what turned out to be a thrilling match.
The game aired early in the morning at 2.30 am.
Since most of the sane were sound asleep at this time, it is not surprising that the focus has so far been on the opening England vs Australia match.
The Welsh team, a nation full of rugby league history and pedigree, were matched in all aspects of the game by a willing, confident and, in hindsight, more than capable Italian team.
Supported by a smattering of Super League and NRL players, the Azzurri hit the lead early on before Wales fought back.
The lead changed a number of times before Italy eventually ran away with the match.
The victory must surely be a huge boost to Italy’s domestic competition.
From all reports, and despite their league splitting into two, the game in Italy seems to be going through a renewed vigour.
Wales showed character and glimpses of skill but it obvious that the NRL experience of the Italian side went a long way in achieving the nation’s first ever victory in a rugby league World Cup.
The use of professional players with Italian heritage will draw out its detractors, but the success of the team will ensure that the Italian media can have no excuse for not reporting on their national side’s success.
Italy’s victory is very much a case of any publicity is good publicity for the game of rugby league.
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