Philippines and Malta women meet in a senior international for world ranking points tomorrow (Sunday) at Centenary Oval, Croom NSW (kick off 3pm, local time). Malta bring in three potential debutants, Liana Dimech, Leila Figallo and Paityne Johns. Head coach Luke Vella commented: “This Test is another important step in building a stronger future for Malta Dames.
“Our past encounters with the Philippines have always been fiercely competitive and we look forward to the challenge. Our focus is on laying strong foundations, strengthening our pathways and creating more opportunities for the next generation of female players.” “The international season always holds a special place in my heart and calendar,” noted Philippines women’s head coach, Renee Targett. “It’s the time of the year where Filipinas far and wide can come together to play for something bigger than themselves and represent their heritage.
“The match against Malta is a great way for us to regenerate our programme and rebuild something stronger into the future as we chase some long-term goals as a nation.”
Malta squad
Kirsty Sant (Cronulla Caringbah), Jessica Borg (Cessnock Goannas), Mackenzie Casser (Caloundra Sharks), Victoria Coppini, Chloe Saliba (Campbelltown City Kangaroos), Kiah Taotofi, Matilda Vella (Emu Plains), Talara Tona-Riley (Leichhardt), Paityne Johns (Mackay Magpies), Kiara McGregor (Newtown Jets), Margot Vella (North Queensland Cowboys), Tahlia Shuker (Rockhampton Brothers), Leila Figallo (Souths Newcastle), Holly Czornobej (Stingrays RLFC), Liana Dimech (Toongabbie Tigers), Molly Mamo (Wentworthville Magpies), Annalise Xerri (Windsor Wolves)
Philippines squad
Alana Phillips (All Saints Toongabbie Tigers), Summer Chua (Caboolture Snakes), Anissa McCue (Corrimal Cougars),Natalia Grant (Darwin Brothers), Brandy Baas (Cincinnati Wolfhounds), Brigette Reyes (Lalor Park Kookas), Merinda Duncan (Mernda Dragons Rugby League Club (VIC)), Charlene Vaughan (Narellan Jets), Elizabeth Ferries (Newcastle Knights), Janine Jamieson (Wynnum Manly Seagulls), Kalaye Lees (Ourimbah-Wyoming Magpies), Madison Massey (Newcastle Knights), Lila Reynolds, Tenice Nguyen (North Sydney Bears), Dallis Graham Withell (Parramatta Eels), Kayla Horvat (Penrith Panthers),Natalia Webb (Penrith Panthers), Manieya Ramirez (Valley Diehards)
