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The Mahurangi Rugby Football Club (MRFC) will host its biggest event since the club started 30 years ago with a pre-season Super Rugby match next month.
The Blues will face the Hurricanes at the Warkworth Showgrounds number one field on February 15, kick-off at 4pm.
MRFC chair Ian Bradnam says they took the opportunity to host the game without hesitation.
“There is a council of clubs in the North Harbour region. When the pre-season match was brought up, our representative Sam Ryburn put his hand up for it,” Bradnam says.
“In the past the club has hosted provincial matches, but this will be our first at Super Rugby level.”
Blues staff inspected the club prior to confirmation and were satisfied with the facilities.
“We have some of the best grounds in North Harbour with our sand-based pitches and LED lighting system.
“I think our recent upgrade of the clubrooms definitely gave the staff confidence in what we have to offer.”
The match is the last pre-season game for the two teams, with the Hurricanes leaving for South Africa the following day for the regular season start.
“The Hurricanes will be bringing their full squad, and we’ve been told there could be up to 17 All Blacks playing, which is a huge drawcard for us,” Bradnam says.
Bradnam is unsure how many people will attend, but expects between 1500 and 4000 spectators on the day, depending on the weather.
“Managing the traffic will definitely be a challenge, but some of our senior players are going to sort out parking at the showgrounds.
“Everyone is so enthusiastic about this event that we have a lot of club members volunteering to help organise the day.”
On the day, the clubrooms will be reserved as a corporate area, but two bars will operate until 7pm at ground level. Grandstand seating will possibly be installed opposite the club. Gates will open at 3pm with a gold coin donation required on entry.
“We have some expenses to cover for the match, and the remaining funds earned will go towards the club,” Bradnam says. Following the match, players will be signing autographs on the field before the club puts on a dinner for the two teams.
