Date: 25/10/13
Versatile Sydney Roosters star Aiden Guerra has been chosen as a centre for Italy’s 2013 World Cup opener against Wales at Millenium Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday.
The rangy specialist back rower has played centre with success at NRL level and this prompted coach Carlo Napolitano to select him as left centre.
“Aiden Guerra is a footballer – he will be a handful for anyone opposing him,”Napolitano said. Guerra played at centre in last Saturday’s 15-14 shock win over England and is happy to play anywhere for the team.
“I knew before we left home that I would more than likely be chosen in the centres so it is no surprise. I will be doing my best for the team,” Guerra said.
The side to represent Italy in the country’s World Cup debut is a powerful one led by captain and fullback Anthony Minichiello.
Minichiello has had a brilliant season culminating in the Sydney Roosters grand final win against Manly three weeks ago.
His brother Mark is part of a powerful pack of forwards who clearly overcame the might of England just a week ago.
Props Paul Vaughan and Anthony Laffranchi showed the way up front with some powerhouse running. Much of Italy’s hopes will centre around young halves Ryan Ghetti and Ben Falcone. Both played well against England and steered the side around the field with excellent results. They will be tested against Wales but are confident young players who have relished being thrust into international football.
Italy team to take on Wales
1. Anthony Minichiello (C)
2. Joshua Mantellato
3. James Tedesco
4. Aiden Guerra
5. Chris Centrone
6. Ben Falcone
7. Ryan Ghietti
8. Anthony Laffranchi
9. Dean Parata
10. Paul Vaughan
11. Mark Minichiello
12. Cameron Ciraldo
13. Joel Riethmuller
Interchange (Two to be omitted)
14. Sam Gardel
15. Ryan Tramonte
16. Brendan Santi
17. Raymond Nasso
18. Tim Maccan
19. Gavin Hiscox
