Podcast: Italy in-camp drama won’t stop them from defeating USA

PODCAST: Expectation is for Italy to shake off in camp drama and be too strong for USA in the second round of World Cup action. Tune in for a full tournament wrap and preview.

James Tedesco of Italy runs the ball during the 2017 Rugby League World Cup match between Ireland and Italy at Barlow Park on October 29, 2017 in Cairns, Australia. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)

ITALY won’t be distracted by a week of drama within their camp and are expected to bounce back hard from last week’s shock loss to Ireland.

Tedesco hit by Italian teammate

Why Teddy shrugged off ‘sad’ Wakeman hit

First they lost Jack Johns for the tournament with a broken arm and then had off-field drama engulf the side with James Tedesco and Shannon Wakeman in a pub scuffle with each other after their 36-12 loss in Cairns.

Hardly ideal circumstances for the game against USA this weekend, but Telegraph Sport writers Nick Campton and Fatima Kdouh said on the League Central Rugby League World Cup podcast that they expect the Italians to brush it off and deliver a much improved performance, especially with Terry Campese named for his first start.

LISTEN to the full episode below that discusses big second tier wins, the Tedesco drama and a full preview of the second week.

“Italy will bounce back hard,” Campton said.

“The USA have picked a lot of domestic based players and that will probably benefit them in the long run, and by long run, I mean the next 10 to 12 years.

James Tedesco in action during Italy’s World Cup opener loss to Ireland. Pic: Chris Hyde/Getty Images

“This tournament, they just don’t have the cattle to compete with a team like Italy.

“I’m expecting Italy to bounce back pretty well and I’m expecting James Tedesco to get three or four tries.”

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Originally published as Podcast: Italy in-camp drama won’t stop them from defeating USA