Warriors v Knights: Eden Park sells out for NRL finals fixture

Coach Andrew Webster said his side was looking forward to taking the field at Eden Park.

“I love it, it’s a bit of us,” Webster said.

“Obviously a lot of history, special place. They’ve made us feel so welcome, giving us an extra day to train here.

“I got in my car today, took me 15 minutes to get here, so it’s awesome.”

The coach recalled watching cricket and Coldplay at the venue, but also reflected on the Auckland Nines and how good the stadium can be for league.

“It’s awesome, the Nines were amazing here. We got to train here last year, we had a session here, so everyone’s looked after us so well and it’s a great opportunity.”

He said the team has three sessions at Eden Park, but will have a full day back at Mt Smart on Wednesday.

Eden Park chief executive Nick Sautner told Ryan Bridge TODAY preparations had been extensive for the match.

“The team of over 3000 casual staff are getting ready to hold a sellout fixture here, with our outer oval opening from 1pm on Sunday,” Sautner said.

He explained how the NRL had been in conversation to move the game to Eden Park over the past few weeks.

“We’ve been in conversations with the NRL for a number of weeks around whether it be week two or week three.

“Unfortunately, it’s now week two rather than week three, so that accelerated plans.

“We’ve been delighted with the engagement with the Warriors from Cameron George yesterday to the coaching team to today’s captain’s run.

“We’re excited, they’re excited, and we just want to make sure that every seat is sold for this weekend’s historic fixture.

“This will be the biggest event in league history in New Zealand.”

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