Sport
10 November, 2025
Italians give Axemen lesson in superiority
AN invitational team of rugby league players under the FIRLA (Federatione d’Italia Rugby League Australia) banner has defeated a Cardwell Axemen invitational side 36-20 at Alley Park in Gordonvale.
Cairns-based Queensland Italy coach Jono Zangrande said the “no holds barred” annual challenge match had become an institution throughout the Far North over the past decade.
“A number of Tablelands and Mareeba-based rugby league players who have direct links via their Italian heritage represented Queensland Italy in the game after the annual clash was relocated from its usual Tully Showgrounds last month and rescheduled for Gordonvale’s Alley Park,” Mr Zangrande said.
The game provides an opportunity for players of Italian heritage to “get their foot in the door” for higher levels, including World Cup or international games for Italy. It also allows selectors to gauge individual talents for potential further selection and representation, encouraging players to perform at their best.
“We came away with a resounding win in Gordonvale and already we are looking forward to our annual clash next year,” Mr Zangrande said.
