Mathers aims for Magic start
Richard Mathers is hoping to get his Castleford career off to a winning start when he makes his Tigers debut against local rivals Wakefield Trinity Wildcats at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium on Saturday February 12.
Mathers joined the Tigers after spending two years with back-to-back Carnegie Challenge Cup winners Warrington Wolves and is hoping to continue that winning pattern with his new team when the season kicks-off with Millennium Magic.
“There is always an amazing atmosphere at Magic Weekend,” said Mathers. “I’m looking forward to the game and I can’t wait to hear the Tigers’ chants in the crowds.
“There is great travelling support for Castleford and I hope there will be a big turnout in Cardiff because Magic Weekend will be my first league game for Castleford and to be able to make my debut at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff is fantastic.”
Mathers has played in Magic Weekend fixtures before but he has always been on the losing side, something he’s planning on changing when Castleford begin their 2011 campaign.
“It is important to start well in Super League,” said the full-back. “It’s vital to put in a good performance and that is what we will be focusing on, as I am sure every other team will be.
“The derby matches at Magic are always massive and are popular with all supporters and it will be a great celebration to start the season. It is a great way to kick-off what will be an exciting campaign and I think the move from May to February is a great one.
“The Millennium Stadium is a fantastic venue and I am sure the fans are eagerly anticipating the return of Super League having gone all winter without Rugby League. The start of the season is when you get to see all of the teams for the first time and I am sure there will be high expectations from the fans.”
Day tickets for Millennium Magic cost from £25 (concessions £12.50) with weekend passes starting from £35 (concessions £17.50). There are promotional offers available for Season Ticket Holders. Ticket and accommodation details for Millennium Magic are available at www.millenniummagic.co.uk or by contacting the RFL Ticket Office on 0844 856 1113.