Jake Grace is the first to admit playing for Malta, against the Philippines of all sides, is something he never thought he’d do during his rugby league playing days.
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But on Saturday at Cabramatta’s New Era Stadium, the 25-year-old did just that, helping the Maltese Knights claim a memorable 44-26 win over the Tamaraws in their emerging nations international clash.
Malta was down 16-10 at half-time, but emerged the stronger of the two sides in the second half, running in 26 points in very quick time late in the contest to secure victory.
Grace said the occasion was a unique one for himself and his family, with his maternal grandfather’s Maltese heritage enabling the Forbes Magpies captain-coach to honour his family’s beginnings.
“My pop is full Maltese and I’m obviously Australian, but to be able to go out there and support where he is from and his culture, it made him really proud … and I enjoy making him proud,” Grace said.
The work-a-holic backrower led Forbes to last year’s Group 11 premiership and was surprised by the standard of rugby league from both sides, with a large chunk of the Malta side based out of Sydney competitions.
“It was a hard game,” the premiership winner said.
“I didn’t know what to expect because it was the first time I’d played with these boys and the first time I’ve come up against a side like the Philippines.
“But they hit hard and were very tough in that first half.
“We had some really great players too. It was enjoyable playing with a few different boys.”
The participants for this year’s World Cup have already been determined.
It made (my pop) really proud … and I enjoy making him proud.
- Jake Grace on representing Malta on Saturday night
Malta’s win over the Tamaraws, however, is the initial stepping stone for the Knights to qualify for the 2021 World Cup, which will be hosted by England.
Grace said the next fixture was still to be determined, but could be an overseas clash – one Malta hopes will help continue to improve the sides World Ranking points and push for the 2021 world tournament.