Nine years ago, the Serbian rugby league community made a strong friendship with the English Lionhearts, the representative from the then Rugby League Conference, who were first major international team to travel to Belgrade to support growth of the sport in the region.

The Lionhearts have recently returned from a second visit, which has helped the Serbians prepare for tomorrow’s (Saturday) vital European Championship B encounter with Russia at the Makiš Stadium, Belgrade, as they aim to hold on to top spot and take a step nearer to 2017 World Cup qualification.

The vsitors triumphed 22-20 in a terrific clash, Serbia’s tries scored by Dragan Jankovic – with a hat trick - and Miloš Calic, while Paul Rickleton, Danny Brown, Ryan Hickman and Jamie Bristo crossed the line for the England side.

“It is never nice when you lose the game, but we are satisfied with the performance because we played against a very experienced rival,” said Serbia’s coach Marko Jankovic. “For us, this kind of game is always welcome as our players don’t get too many chances to play against strong and technically better opposition. I think that we are ready for the game against Russia.”

Lionhearts team manager, Mark Prior, acknowledged the progress rugby league has made in Serbia. “They are very tough team, with talented players,” he said. “There’s no doubt they can play and I think they can be successful at the international level. We want to come back here again.”

While in Serbia, Lionhearts also won the Belgrade Victor Trophy after defeating capital city’s select but the tour wasn’t all about on the field. They also found time to visit a Home for Children and Youth with Development Disabilities, and showcased the sport for children from two primary schools in Sremčica, where they were joined by staff from British Embassy in Serbia, led by charge d’affaires Tracy Gallagher.

The touring side also attended a reception at central city Municipality of Stari Grad (Old Town) Council, while on the day-off from games.