Greek player handed 12-month ban
A 12-month ban has been handed out to a player/coach who invaded the playing field and became involved in an altercation with players in a recent match.
Oresti Karamichailidis of Greek Super League side Attica Rhinos is banned until January 28, 2024.
He is banned from participating in all matches, and is also prohibited from being on the bench of his team at these matches.
A Greek RL statement said: “The federation points out, once again, that it follows a “zero tolerance” attitude towards indecent behaviour towards the referees and considers equally serious the “invasion” of people who were outside the field of play.
“The entry of persons into the field of play without permission or reasonable excuse, without any discrimination, will be considered a serious offence with harsh consequences.”
The incident occurred in a match between the Rhinos and Rhodes Knights at the end of January.
Rhodes came from behind to win the game 20-18 thanks to two late tries.
There had been an earlier flash point in the game that saw Rhodes player Peter Delfakis sent off for punching an opponent.
Despite playing with 12-men for half an hour after Delfakis’ red card, the Knights were able to fight back and secure the win.
Delfakis was also dealt with by the Greek disciplinary, receiving a three match ban. The federation says that one match was a penalty for punching his opponent, while the further two matches were as a result of his abusive behaviour towards the referee who sent him off.
Domestic rugby league in Greece
The domestic season in Greece got underway in November, following the country’s historic appearance at the World Cup.
It is the first season since rugby league gained official government recognition in Greece.
The men’s competition is made up of nine teams – Rhodes Knights, Attica Rhinos and Athens Raiders play in the East Division.
The West Division is made up of Aris Eagles, Glyfada Sharks, Patra Panthers, Perama Tigers, Pyrrichios and AEK Athens, who are also participating in this year’s Balkan Super League.
The season is due to run until a triple-header Grand Final on March 18.
That will be made up of the Grand Finals from each of the two men’s divisions, plus the Grand Final of the women’s competition, which comprises four teams.