Rugby league: Ex-Junior Warrior Jordan Meads helps Greece defy odds to qualify for 2021 World Cup

Greece celebrate qualifying for the 2021 Rugby League World Cup.
Greece celebrate qualifying for the 2021 Rugby League World Cup. Photo credit: GreekRL

A former Junior Warriors star has helped Greece create history by qualifying for the Rugby League World Cup for the first time. 

Halfback Jordan Meads - who kicked the winning field goal in the 2011 U20 final for the Warriors - scored two tries and kicked nine goals as Greece beat Serbia 86-6 to qualify for the 2021 tournament. 

The ruthless display saw the Titans claim the 15th and penultimate place at the World Cup, which will be held in England. 

The 16th and last spot for the World Cup will be decided in Jacksonville, Florida, on November 16 when the United States host the Cook Islands.

But what makes the win more impressive is that Greece are currently not allowed to play matches in their home country.

Jordan Meads celebrates kicking the game-winning field goal against the Cowboys in the 2011 U20 final.
Jordan Meads celebrates kicking the game-winning field goal against the Cowboys in the 2011 U20 final. Photo credit: Photosport

The government and the Hellenic Modern Pentathlon Federation (HMPF), who claim governance of the sport, do not recognise the Greek Rugby League Association, even though they're ranked 16th in the world. 

Former Roosters, Magpies and Wests Tigers first-grader Steve Georgallis coached the side and was immensely proud of their historic feat.

"Serbia were very physical, scored early and gave us a shock but overall everyone is just so excited at playing in a World Cup and what it might do for the domestic game in Greece," he said. 

"We hope it's the step forward needed, and everyone back home will be proud of us. We've got a lot of young players and are looking forward to coming to England."

Greece only began competing in attempting to qualify for the World Cup six years ago.

Last year, Jamaica created history by qualifying for their first-ever World Cup. 

The draw for the World Cup will be conducted later this month. 

Newshub.