Leeds Akkies RLFC

The match was ended after 65 minutes following severe thunderstorms and lightning that lashed the surrounds of the Melita FC venue. Officials looked call an end to the match at half time but the captains agreed to go on.

Just as thunderous on the field, the Maltese hit the lead in the opening five minutes through centre Anthony Basacomas down the right flank. Halfback Malcolm Attard added the extras but the strong Basacomas would leave the field five minutes later, a foot injury ended his night.

The Akkies hit back with a brace of tries through prop Simon Hudson and the Akkies were confident going into half time but Graham Kombo ensured he would terrorise the British defence all night in a man of the match performance.

The Maltese were led around the park well by Malcolm Attard who scored a try of his own, Darren Edmonds and Justin Barlogio joined him in steering the team, but the conditions were beyond tough.

The locals' only overseas based players Dom and Liam Grima had strong games and Akkies staff were full of praise for their opposition, "Malta's got some good raw talent, number five (Joey Criminale) and 20 (Graham Kombo) have been great, but you've got some great talent across the park"

Malta coach Anthony Micallef played nine debutants including two from the Gozo RL club alongside eight national team regulars.

“Not only spirited taking everything into account, plus the weather was horrendous, but it’s quite a strong result considering all but two of our players tonight were domestic” said Micallef.

Earlier in the night, the Malta Ladies celebrated a three tries to nil victory over the Leeds Akkies ladies in a fixture of touch rugby league.

In another milestone for the game locally, Englishwoman Rose Nash and local referee Nadia Gosney shared control of the proceedings in the middle of the field. Malta officials will deliver match officials courses next month.

Leeds Akkies 30 (S Hudson 2, G Sargeant, I Poulton, R Pinder tries, J Howard 5 from 5 goals) defeated
Malta XIII 10 (A Basacomas, M Attard tries, M Attard 1 from 2 goals)
Referee: Ms Rose Nash (Eng)
Touch Judges: Ms Nadia Gosney (Mlt) and Mr Richard Twigg (Mlt)

Note: Matchday pictures by Matthew Scerri to be added by Monday 17 October.

*Courtesy of www.malteserugbyleague.com