The decision by the RFL, SLE and Visit Wales to take a complete round of Super League fixtures to the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff is quite possibly one of the best ideas that has been followed through since 1995.In early May 2007, all twelve Super League clubs will head to South Wales for "Millennium Magic", a full round of Super League action spread over one weekend.
After the success of the Challenge Cup finals that were held at the same venue between 2003 and 2005, the Welsh Tourist Board and Millennium Stadium Plc have clearly seen the value of Super League and that is a real compliment to the RFL, the clubs and the supporters of Rugby League.
The RFL has never been afraid of progress, despite the objections of those that seemingly want to see the game remain a minority M62 sport. The introduction of summer rugby has changed the professional game completely and now Rugby League enjoys a much greater profile across the country and Europe with the presence of sides such as Harlequins, Les Catalans and to a lesser extent, Celtic Crusaders.
This weekend in the valleys will only enhance that. The RFL is bringing Super League to an audience which loves rugby, regardless of which code and the event will no doubt attract much increased media attention nationally. The venue itself is one which has been praised by supporters since it was first used for the 2003 Challenge Cup Final and unlike other stadia built on an industrial estate miles from the city, Millennium Stadium is situated in the heart of the Welsh capital.
The reservations about this event have been coming from various directions. A lack of hotels, suitable transport links, lack of free entry for season ticket holders and of course, the cost have dominated message boards and the League Express letters pages since the idea was first leaked in the Yorkshire Evening Post back in July.
Yes, hotels may be at a premium but Cardiff has good transport links with nearby cities in both England and Wales and the fair ticket pricing implimented by the RFL show that the cost implications have been well thought out.
The RFL have resisted the urge to give in to the narrow-minded objections of a minority and thankfully, the people at Red Hall can finally see that we live in the 21st century.
Everyone will be a winner with the "Millennium Magic" weekend.
Confirmed fixtures:
Leeds Rhinos vs Bradford Bulls
St Helens vs Wigan Warriors
Hull FC vs Hull Kingston Rovers
Warrington Wolves vs Salford City Reds
Les Catalans Dragons vs Harlequins
Wakefield Trinity Wildcats vs Huddersfield Giants
To be played weekend of Sat 5th / Sun 6th of May. Dates and times to be confirmed.
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