History made as Worcester Rebels play their first game
Worcester Rebels made history yesterday by playing their first game as a rugby league club after being founded earlier this year.
The good news story has to be the try scored by Liibaan Dable, who the club ‘unofficially’ believe may be the first man from Finland score a try in a men’s rugby league game on these shores – and quite possibly this may apply to the whole world!
The international vibe doesn’t stop at Dable. The club are captained by South Africa-born Aron Middleton, who is a former Worcester Warriors rugby union academy player. Vice-captain is Matthew Robinson, a former Sheffield Eagles academy man. Player-coach is Alex Paynter, who also works for Wales Rugby League on their men’s team backroom staff.
Under the hot summer sun a hard fought contest against gracious hosts North East Worcestershire Ravens Rugby League saw a vast array of skill, power, speed and healthy competitiveness. The first half saw plenty of opportunities created and plenty of tries scored.
The second half began in the same spirit in which the first half ended. The intensity began to show as fitness levels began to wane. And where fitness levels falter, space is created. Unfortunately for the Rebels, NEW Ravens were able to exploit the newly created space expertly scoring three unanswered tries. These three tries were to be the difference as the game ended 48-34.
A fantastic first game for the Rebels with several new players experiencing rugby league in all its beauty for the first time. The Rebels gave special thanks to New Ravens for being ‘fantastic hosts’.
A momentous moment for Worcester Rebels
Rebels coach Alex Paynter commented: “Just getting this game on feels like a momentous moment for our club irregardless of result.
“We’ve worked very hard to get to this point and our players should be proud of their efforts.
“We’re looking to rebuild rugby league’s reputation in Worcester and this was the best possible way to start this.
“I encourage any interested players or volunteers to get in touch and join us as the future is now bright.”
The Rebels next game sees them host N.E.W Ravens at home, on grounds shadowed by Sixways Stadium on Saturday, June 10.
The Rebels say new players are always welcome. They train at Cummings Farm, Worcester on Wednesdays between 7-8:30pm.
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