Quote: Itchy Arsenal "What is the concept? A good weekend? I thought the idea was to take it to developing regions a la Cardiff? Is there any strategic intent in this from SL point of view other than it is a low cost event? Why don't we hold a Test match then at Newcastle?
We already know we will in all likelyhood be playing Leeds at least 5 times next season. What is the point of it all?
I normally agree with you Nicky on most things but on this occassion we will have to agree to disagree.
It's just lazy unimaginative marketing which is pretty standard for the game.'"
If it's to spread the game then Newcastle must tick the box and if it's to try and help the development of the sport in an area then there's a developing side in Newcastle that can feel a benefit.
I say that but your probably right on what I feel it really is, which is a great weekend for the fans and I see no issue with that. It gives us a chance to celebrate the sport and have fun. We stayed at a caravan site in Whitley Bay and had a great time. There were fans of all clubs mixing, having a drink and having a laugh without any trouble in sight.
Having the event in Manchester makes it a lazy excercise, an event that certainly doesn't spread the game to anybody new but even that still drags in more publicity.
Swap it with the cup final and alternate it between Newcastle and another venue and I think it's going to grow and grow.
Like you say we'll agree to disagree. I get where you're coming from, I was heading that way myself until last year but the atmosphere round the Newcastle event totally transformed my view.