Leeds amateur club Stanningley suffer shared gate 'kick' ahead of huge Challenge Cup derby v Hunslet RLFC
A Leeds community club say they’ve suffered a ‘kick’ ahead of one of the biggest days in their history.
Stanningley, who will play in the amateur game’s new National League One this year, take on city rivals Hunslet RLFC, of the Betfred Championship, in the Challenge Cup second round on Saturday (1.30pm). The winners have been drawn at home to Super League outfit Huddersfield Giants in the next stage, to be played in two weeks’ time.
Rather than switching to Hunslet or a neutral ground, Stanningley will stage this weekend’s tie at their Arthur Miller Stadium, in Coal Hill Drive, which is also used by Leeds Rhinos for academy and reserves matches. Capacity has been set at 1,100, but Stanningley - whose team are coached by former Leeds Rhinos player Ashton Golding - feel the competition’s policy of clubs sharing gate receipts means they will miss out.
Stanningley battled through “financial difficulties” last year and acting-chairman Dean Parker said: “As a club we are looking forward to the occasion. We are, however, disappointed in the RFL decision that we must split the gate 50/50 with the professional team.
“We feel like it’s a bit of a kick on the amateur team who are obviously hoping to make the most of the occasion for our members and future. It kind of removes the incentive to host the game in future. Obviously it’s trying times for everybody.”
Capacity for the game has been set at 1,100 and tickets – priced £10 for adults and £5 concessions – are on sale now via this link. They are also available to purchase behind the bar in Stanningley’s clubhouse. Admission opens at noon on Saturday. Entry with pre-purchased tickets is via the metal gates at the side of the club. Any remaining tickets will be available to buy on the day, by cash or card, via the main club entrance.
Parker added: “We kindly ask that everyone arrives in good time, is respectful of our neighbours and, where possible, car-shares or uses alternative transport. The club car park will be for players and staff of both clubs and blue badge holders only.” Parking for fans is available on Intake Lane and Summerfield Drive.