George Peponis to kick-off historic
international

Former Australian Rugby League Test captain George Peponis will have the honour of kicking-off when Greece takes on Italy in the historic Rugby League international this Saturday.

Peponis played 131 first grade matches for Canterbury between 1972 and 1982. He featured in eight Tests and led the Australians to a 3-0 whitewash against the touring Great Britain side in 1979.

Peponis, who was born in Greece, was a major influence in attracting the Greek community to Rugby League. His feats on the field make him a folk hero amongst the Greek fraternity. He will join Rugby League International Federation Chairman Colin Love and Jim Taylor, the Mayor of Kogarah as special guests for the game.

Greece will do battle with Italy at Oki Jubilee Oval on Saturday, September 27 with the main game kicking off at 3pm. Gates open at midday.

Aside from the match being televised by community station Channel 31, the game has been given a huge boost by the news that English-based Sky Sports will show a highlights package on their Rugby League show next Wednesday. It will be screened in many European countries including parts of Greece and Italy. Sky Sports will be providing their own crew at the game.

Greece will be captain-coached by Steve Georgallis while David Riolo (ex-Parramatta and Illawarra) will be in charge for the Italians. Wests Tigers forward Anthony Laffranchi will captain Italy.

For further information, contact Greek Rugby League Media Manager Terry Liberopoulos on 0417 414 204 or terry@rugbyleaguereview.com