Dzavid Jasari’s penalty was the deciding factor in Serbia’s thrilling win against the touring Wales Dragonhearts at FK Heroj Polet stadium in Jajinci. The Welsh tourists gave a stern test for the World Cup hopefuls who, in ten days, start their defence of European Championship B in Russia. 

It was an exciting match, especially in the first half where teams traded the lead, which eventually ended with a 14:14 tie after Sam Pridgeon try in the 32^nd minute. 

Backed up with origin players from Australia, Serbia regained the lead at the start of the second half, Jonathan Kreest scoring and match hero Jasari converting. Mark Jones responded eight minutes later with his try and captain Mike Hurley’s successful conversion. 

From there on, it was a defensive stalemate with both teams unwilling to bow down under the pressure. Until, Serbia decided to take the points from good penalty opportunity, making Jasari’s conversation a match winner.

Serbia’s Australian coach Brett Davidson was more than happy for SRL’s historic win against home nation team. “A tough fought win, many opportunities lost, making some silly mistakes. But it’s all a learning curb as we move forward, we take great pride in becoming the first Serbian team to defeat one of the home nations team“, said Davidson and added „A fantastic confidence boost for the guys heading into the Euro B World Cup Qualifiers“.

Welsh tourist will get another crack at the host on Saturday, playing against Serbian XIII side at NC Makis stadium, also in Belgrade.

Wales Dragonhearts team manager Steve Smith commented: “I think we chased the win too early and with a bit more composure, discipline and structure we should have won the game. We all feel that was a game that got away. We will regroup get a couple of training session in and concentrate on the next game on Saturday“.

Busy SRL weekend will conclude on Sunday also at NC Makis stadium were Serbia top side will host France in a final WCQ warm up.