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ITALY U20s - Luca Petillo

ITALY U20s - Luca Petillo

Tom Bulmer21 Feb 2017 - 17:32
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We caught up with our very own Luca Petillo on his time with the Italy U20s side and a look ahead to Friday’s U20 Six Nations clash.

Having previously captained the Italy U20s side, Mowden Park forward Luca Petillo gave us his thoughts ahead of Friday’s game. The DMP back-rower has previously represented Italy at U16, U18 & U20 level, as well as gaining 3 caps for Italy ‘A’. On his time in the U20s set up, Petillo said: “Playing to such a high level is very important for development. For me it was the best period of my career”.

Pictured playing against an England team containing the likes of Ben Youngs and Alex Goode, Petillo stressed the importance of international rugby: “Playing every week for 80 minutes at international level is fundamental to a young player’s career”. The 27 year old was involved in 2 Six Nations campaigns and 2 Junior World Championships.

As the Italian U20s side prepare for their next contest, Petillo suggested that the team were expecting a tough encounter: “Friday will be a hard match, England are a strong team and will be favourites to win the tournament. Italy are doing well though and 2 weeks ago they lost only 26-27 against Ireland.” Despite being winless in this years competition, that result against Ireland hinted that there may be more to come from the Italians. Petillo suggested pride and passion were key to the team’s chances “Maybe in Italy we don’t have the best structures like here in England, but we are always hungry. Playing for your country is the best thing that can happen in a life of a rugby player!”

Looking forward, Luca is eager to reignite his international career: “I’m always working to come back to the Italian first team, because it’s my dream, my obsession!”

Tickets for Friday’s game are still available to purchase by ringing 01325 350267 or visiting reception between 9am – 5pm. Book by 5pm on Wednesday for advance discount, click here for more information.

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