David Mead: ‘I’m excited to play at Magic Weekend’

Catalans Dragons full-back David Mead has admitted he’s ‘excited’ to make his Magic Weekend debut at St James’ Park. 

The former Gold Coast Titans and Brisbane Broncos utility back joined the Dragons on a three-year deal at the start of the current season, and will make his Magic Weekend debut this Sunday as his side face Salford Red Devils.

Steve McNamara’s side have struggled so far in 2018, falling to the bottom of the ladder with just three wins in the league. However, Mead has been a stand-out player for the Dragons leading the way on the try tally board.

Salford claimed the two-points when these sides met on Good Friday with a 32-16 victory.

On the event, Mead said: “I’m looking forward to the experience. All the boys say it’s a great time having all the teams in one spot and the atmosphere is great.”

“I’ve never been to Newcastle so I don’t know much about the city but I have seen some highlights of previous games there and it looks like a great football stadium so I’m excited to play on the pitch.”

There has been speculation of Australian league NRL interested in a concept such as Magic Weekend, which Ashton Sims has previously backed, and Mead is too a supporter of the idea.

“I think it would definitely work in the NRL using the same concept having all teams in the one place for a weekend,” Mead admitted.

“Many fans would be excited to see not only the team they support but perhaps be excited to see other players from other teams who they enjoy watching.”

The Papua New Guinea captain admits prior to joining the Dragons he had ‘never heard’ about the Magic Weekend, but is looking forward to the event.

“I had not heard anything about Magic Weekend until I arrived in France. The boys are very excited to play there this weekend so I’m looking forward to running out with them and hopefully get the win,” he said.

“I’m sure it’ll be something that will stay with me forever. I don’t watch much football but I did go to a match in 2013, Sunderland Vs Hull, which was unreal. The chanting from the fans is electric. I definitely have it on my bucket list to go watch some big games in England and around Europe.

“I’m definitely excited to play at one of England’s best stadiums.”