The England Lionhearts from the Midlands region have returned from a successful two-match tour of Greece facing club sides.

In the first match, four tries from winger Matt Dudley were the highlight as A.E.K. were beaten 64-14 in Athens. Adam Clifford finished with 24 points from two tries and eight goals, James Derry, Mike Florey, Nathan Parker, Jon Doughty, David Beever and Dean Thompson with their other touchdowns.

The hosts, who are recently formed, replied before the break with a score from Pavlos Polymeneas, Panos Varypatis and Giorgin Syti with a try and a conversion their other scorers.

Scrum half Dean Thompson was the stand out player in the Lionhearts’ second game scoring four tries and having a hand in numerous others as Pyrrihios were downed 58-6.  Adam Clifford kicked nine goals with the visitors other tries coming from, Joe Gregory, Nathan Parker, Joe Derry, Adam Walker with a double and Kieran Ollerenshaw. Pyrrihios were rewarded for their continued efforts with a late try from Tasos Alexandridis, converted by Sotiris Papasotiriou.

Lionhearts manager Chris Spurr commented, “The Greek sides gave their all in both games and showed plenty of heart. They improved massively during the eighty minutes and the experience will only help them to develop further. Their hospitality and help and that of the Greek Rugby League was outstanding throughout the tour, our boys have had a wonderful experience sampling their chosen sport in a different culture.”

The tourists were treated to a traditional Greek banquet before departure home.