NSW Country Eagles general manager Pete Playford pledged to bring his side back to Orange after being forced to move last weekend’s National Rugby Championship (NRC) game from the colour city, thanks to the recent weather and condition of grounds.
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Playford said he and the entire Eagles playing group were devastated after the decision was made to move last Saturday’s game against Perth to Sydney’s Concord Oval, although every effort was made to play the game in Orange.
“We did everything we could, we exhausted all the options. We even looked at playing in Blayney, Bathurst and thought about Dubbo or Mudgee too,” Playford lamented.
“It just wasn’t possible when you think about flights, and buses and accommodation and all that sort of thing, especially for the Perth Spirit.
“It’s terribly disappointing, all the guys were really excited for it and plenty were planning on staying for the whole weekend. A lot of the guys said our game in Tamworth was the best NRC game they’d been a part of, so we were looking forward to that again, but it wasn’t to be.
“But we want everyone out there to know we are committed to regional NSW, we will do everything we can to come back to Orange.
“We’ve got four home games next season I believe, so we’re hoping to play all of them in the bush.
“In terms of hosts, Orange is at the top of the list as far as I’m concerned.”
Playford lauded all those who put in time and effort in an attempt to see the game played in Orange.
“Orange City Council were great, as was Blayney’s council. Barry Ruddy from NSW Country Rugby Union went above and beyond as well, we really can’t thank everyone enough for their efforts, unfortunately we can’t control the weather,” Playford said.
The Eagles thumped the Spirit 48-24 at Concord Oval to maintain their lead at the top of the NRC table.