Malta embraces rugby league in 36
to 6 defeat of England in Malta

The Maltese public has been treated to a professional display of rugby league in all facets of the game at Marsa Stadium this afternoon where the home side, the Malta Knights defeated England Lionhearts by 36 points to 6.

With Malta Olympic Committee officials and High Commisioners of Australia and Malta respectively, Malta opened the try scoring through Ryan Borg following a penalty conversion to England that initially kick started scoring preceedings following an initial simmering tension.

Malta's tries were scored by Ryan Borg, Matt Zammit; who displayed his trademark mile-high dive, Brad Clews, Matt Dux in the left corner, Luke Branighan and Simon Micallef while Ben Sammut was splendid with the boot kicking 6 from 7.

Robert Bonavia received as much support as the entire Maltese national team when head coach Joe Grima praised the Maltese local with a great presence on the field throughout both halves where the in-experienced rugby union player held his own in the forwards.

RLEF Representative Ben Araud was appreciative in his congratulations saying 'I'm impressed with the event'

Player of the match for Malta was fullback Ryan Borg. England's captain received the respective accolades on the other side of the presentation.

Further in depth report and pictures to appear later.

The Sunday Times will cover the match in full as will Super One TV and PBS TV.

FULL TIME Marsa Stadium, Malta MALTA Knights 36 (Borg, Zammit, Clews, Dux, Branighan, Micallef tries. Sammut 6 from 7 goals) ENGLAND Lionhearts 6(1 try, 1 from 2 goals) H-T Malta 18-6 Att 500