Derby format returns for Magic Weekend
The line-up for the Magic Weekend which will open next season has been confirmed.
The event marks its return to Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium with a return to the local derbies format, with a mouth-watering Hull derby and a Super League Grand Final re-match between Wigan and St Helens both part of the programme.
Castleford will entertain their local rivals Wakefield, and there is a West Yorkshire derby between Leeds and Bradford.
The other games see Huddersfield play Warrington, Catalans face Harlequins and Salford against Crusaders.
Saturday 12th February
1pm – Huddersfield Giants v Warrington Wolves
3pm – Catalans Dragons v Harlequins RL
5pm – Castleford Tigers v Wakefield Trinity Wildcats
7pm – Wigan Warriors v St Helens
Sunday 13th February
12noon – Salford City Reds v Crusaders
2pm – Leeds Rhinos v Bradford Bulls
4pm – Hull FC v Hull KR
RFL Chief Executive Nigel Wood commented: “This opening round of fixtures represents an outstanding way of kicking off the 2011 season in style. The overwhelming majority of fans told us that they wanted to see local rivalry matches and I’m sure thousands of loyal Rugby League supporters will be excited by the prospect of watching seven superb encounters in Cardiff at the start of next season.
“All of the clubs will have the chance to lay down a marker for the season ahead, particularly St Helens who will be desperate to put one over Wigan after their defeat to the Warriors at Old Trafford in October, but there will also be a lot of local pride at stake with a number of the other clashes.”
With the Millennium Magic Weekend returning to Cardiff for the first time since 2008, Millennium Stadium Manager Gerry Toms is looking forward to welcoming Rugby League back to the national stadium.
“We are delighted that Rugby League is returning to the Millennium Stadium for what we are certain will be a fantastic weekend of top class action,” said Toms.
“Supporters who come to the Stadium will see some of the world’s best Rugby League players and it will certainly prove to be a great showcase for the sport.
“The supporters who follow Engage Super League are also great ambassadors for the game and we look forward to giving them all a great Welsh welcome at the home of rugby union in Wales.
