Rochdale’s momentous day on the biggest stage is fast approaching as the Rugby League World Cup edges ever-closer to town.
Fiji – who will be Rochdale’s adopted nation for the tournament – take on Ireland in a Group A match at Spotland Stadium on October 28.
Mayor, Councillor Peter Rush, will host a civic ceremony on October 22 to welcome the Fijian side to the borough, with Fiji’s national flag being raised as part of the proceedings.
Rochdale beat off strong competition to win the right to host a group stage game and Councillor Rush has expressed his excitement ahead of the match.
“We are very much looking forward to the game in Rochdale, in what has also been a memorable year for rugby league already with Rochdale Hornets winning the Championship One play-off final,” he said.
“It’s good for rugby league and more welcome news for the borough, so we are very proud to be hosting the World Cup.”
The town has strong connections with both competing nations and Mike Ratu senior, who played for both Fiji and Rochdale Hornets, has predicted a unique atmosphere inside Spotland Stadium.
“It will certainly be something different, a real spectacle,” he said.
“For me, to play for the town was amazing, but to see the World Cup come to Rochdale and Fiji to come over here and play in the biggest sporting event ever held here is very special.”
Former Irish international Ged Corcoran, whose younger brother Wayne is a former Hornets loose-forward, is also expecting the region’s Irish community to turn out in force to support their side.
“I hope that many [of the Irish community] will be coming down to support their national team. With both teams looking to get off to a flying start in the tournament, it really will be a special atmosphere to bring to Rochdale,” he said.
“It will be good to look back and say you were there when the World Cup was played in Rochdale!”
The game will kick off at 8pm and tickets start at £10 for adults (£5 concessions)
Tickets are available online at www.rlwc2013.com/rochdale, over the phone by calling 0844 847 2013 or in person at the Spotland Stadium ticket office.
image courtesy of Rod Allday, with thanks
For more on this story and many others, follow Mancunian Matters on Twitter and Facebook.
