The Warriors are currently leading the NRL table with two rounds remaining, putting the club on track for a rare home play-off match. According to RNZ reporting, CEO Cameron George states that the club will push to play finals football at Go Media Stadium rather than relocating to the larger Eden Park venue. However, the ARLC retains sole discretion over venue selection under its updated finals policy.
NRL Finals Venue Policy and the Eden Park Factor
The NRL sent clubs its updated finals policy prior to the start of the season. As noted by RNZ, the guidelines specify that the ARLC maintains absolute authority to independently select the most appropriate locations for staging any and all NRL and NRLW Final Series fixtures. While Go Media Stadium is half the capacity of the country’s national stadium, Eden Park offers a 50,000 capacity. That larger capacity presents the NRL with the prospect of increased gate takings.
Despite the capacity difference, George maintains that the atmosphere at Go Media can’t be replicated elsewhere. “It feels like 50,000,” George told RNZ. “That’s the beauty of our ground. Our fans have turned it into a place you want to be.” Across the 21 play-off campaigns the Warriors have reached, Go Media Stadium has hosted four matches, whereas Eden Park has hosted zero.
Player and Club Push for Mt Smart Stadium
Warriors captain Mitch Barnett supports keeping the match at the team’s regular home ground, telling RNZ that supporters turn the venue into a distinct competitive advantage. “Everyone can agree, when we play here, this place gets rocking. This is our home, I reckon we stay here,” Barnett said.
George acknowledges that the final decision ultimately rests outside the club’s control, but he plans to advocate for the team’s rights when discussions begin. “I understand the NRL own the finals and this topic always raises its head at this time of the year when we’re looking potentially at a home semi,” George told RNZ. “You earn rights to get home semi finals and it’s not just a lucky draw. You play throughout the year to try and achieve these outcomes.”
Did you know? Warriors fans have already accounted for 24% of grand final ticket sales, reflecting strong engagement as the club sits at the top of the competition ladder.
Reflecting on a Remarkable Turnaround
The prospect of hosting a home final marks a significant milestone for a club that has endured challenging seasons in the past. George reflected on the team’s journey to the top of the ladder in his interview with RNZ, noting the contrast with earlier years.
“It’s truly special when you don’t have to look too far back when we’ve had pretty bleak days,” George said, pointing to cold nights, big scores against us, and criticism. With clarity regarding the finals schedule expected to unfold over the coming week, the Warriors await formal discussions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do the Warriors currently want to play their potential home final?
The Warriors want to play at Go Media Stadium, citing their strong home-ground advantage and loyal fan base.
Who makes the final decision on NRL finals venues?
The ARLC retains the autonomous authority, per the guidelines of the NRL finals policy, to pick whichever locations it deems most appropriate for hosting NRL and NRLW Final Series matches.
What is the capacity difference between Go Media Stadium and Eden Park?
Go Media Stadium is half the capacity of the country’s national stadium, while Eden Park can hold 50,000 fans.
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