Aston relishing Eagles’ return to the Lane

Sheffield Eagles director of rugby Mark Aston is looking forward to his team making a return to Bramall Lane for the fifth roudn Challenge Cup tie with Hull FC later this month.

The Eagles are currently playing their home games Doncaster’s Keepmoat Stadium, while waiting for a new stadium to be constructed in Sheffield.

They have in the past played at the Lane, the home of Sheffield United FC, are Aston is hoping for a great atmosphere for the game with Hull.

“It is fantastic to be able to bring this game to Bramall Lane and I must thank Kevin McCabe and everyone at Sheffield United for making this possible,” he said.

“The stadium hosted our cup tie against Wigan a number of years ago when the Eagles were 10 – 4 up after 25 minutes and, although losing the game, went on to score the highest number of points conceded in a match by Wigan all season.

“I am looking forward to a similar performance from the boys against Hull and if everyone is on their game there is no reason why we cannot pull off a victory.

“Hull have a good travelling support which should make for a great atmosphere so please come down and support us as we bring Rugby League back to Sheffield.”

Sheffield United operations director Dave McCarthy also highlighted the multi-sport history of Bramall Lane as a venue.

“Bramall Lane has a proud history of hosting various sports and we are delighted to kick-off the 160th year of our proud venue by helping our friends at the Eagles,” he said.

“As well as being our famous home since 1889, Bramall Lane has staged many other sports including cricket, cycling and championship boxing , which we hope will return to S2 in the not too distant future.

“The Eagles have played a number of times at Bramall Lane and it is great that at this point in the season we are able to assist them.”