Wood hails cup final to remember

RFL Chief Executive Nigel Wood has praised Rugby League supporters for the part they played in Saturday’s historic Carnegie Challenge Cup Final at Wembley.

A sell-out crowd of 85,217 people saw Warrington Wolves defeat Leeds Rhinos 30-6 in a carnival atmosphere to help cement the Challenge Cup’s place as one of the jewels in the nation’s sporting crown.

“On behalf of the RFL I’d like to thank all the supporters who made the 2010 Carnegie Challenge Cup Final such a memorable occasion,” said Wood.

“As well as fans of the two finalists, Warrington and Leeds, there were supporters of Rugby League clubs from across the country at Wembley and they all played a part in making it such a special event.

“Once again Wembley saw world class sport at its unequivocal best with a Challenge Cup final that was rich in colour, noise, atmosphere and pageantry.

“This was the first time that the RFL sold out a Carnegie Challenge Cup final at the new Wembley and I’m sure it won’t be the last.

“Whilst it’s unfortunate that many fans weren’t able to purchase tickets for the Challenge Cup final, the message has to be that supporters have to move quickly to secure their seats at major Rugby League events.”

Wood has also sent his congratulations to Warrington for their success in defending the Carnegie Challenge Cup for the first time in their history.

“Victory on Saturday was a terrific achievement for everyone at Warrington Wolves and I would like to congratulate all the players, coaching staff and officials at Warrington on their historic win,” added Wood.