17 February 2012
LIDCOMBE OVAL HOSTS SPECIAL HOMECOMING
Western Suburbs Rugby League Club will make an emotional return to Lidcombe Oval on Saturday 3 March, playing a fixture on the hallowed turf for the first time since 1986.
The NSW Cup game against archrivals Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles will be played at the scene of many fierce battles between the famous clubs.
The ‘Fibros’ versus ‘Silvertails’ clash is a great opportunity for the Magpies to re-connect with their traditions and treat fans to a trip down memory lane.
Daniel Watson-Hayes, Director-Operations Manager of the Magpies, said excitement has already started to build with the chance to play at Lidcombe Oval.
“There’s every reason this event will be well received and we expect a great crowd on the day. There’s so many reasons why it will be a great success as it taps into the history and nostalgia of what Western Suburbs stands for”, he said.
“At this stage, it’s just a one-off event, but if we get a good crowd and a positive response from the community, the potential is there for the Magpies to play more games out of Lidcombe Oval in coming years.
“The initial response has been fantastic and there’s every reason to suggest this will be an event remembered for many years to come.”
Auburn Mayor Ronney Oueik recognised that returning Lidcombe Oval, the current home of Auburn Warriors, was significant for the Magpies and encouraged locals to show their support.
“The passion of the Western Suburbs fans is renowned and the Magpies have traditionally represented the rugby league working class in Western Sydney”, he said.
“I thank the club and the New South Wales Rugby League for helping promote sport in the heart of Western Sydney.”
The NSW Cup is contested by the reserve squads of NSW-based NRL teams and is a vital stepping stone to the NRL.
The Auburn Warriors will be playing in the curtain raiser to the Western Suburbs-Manly Warringah clash at 1.30pm, with junior grades from 10am.
NSWRL VB NSW Cup 2012
Round 1: Saturday 3 March 2012
Venue: Lidcombe Oval
Times: 10am-1.30pm - Junior grades
1.30pm-3pm - Auburn Warriors vs Liverpool Titans (Sydney Shield)
3pm - Western Suburbs Magpies vs. Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles (NSW Cup)
Tickets: Adults $10, Children (16 years & Under) $5, Children 5 years and under FREE. Available at Wests Ashfield Leagues Club reception and at the gate (Lidcombe Oval).