13 hours Ago
There have been some memorable ones over the years - from Toby King's tribute to then-Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino at Anfield to George Williams' cupped ear - and this year, incentives are being offered to players who celebrate their tries creatively while at the same time joining the game's fundraising efforts in aid of the Motor Neurone Disease Association. To mark the 18th Magic Weekend since the concept was launched in Cardiff in 2007, competition sponsors Betfred will donate £180 for every try celebration across the six fixtures at St James’ Park - and have also offered an additional £1,000 for the best celebration over the weekend. “We wanted to find a way to celebrate the 18th Magic Weekend, and rugby league is always looking to support the Motor Neurone Disease Association – and thanks to Betfred’s support, we’re going to ask the players to lead the way in both," Rugby League Commercial manager director Rhodri Jones said.
“Magic Weekend has always emphasised the fun and enjoyment of rugby league, for players and supporters. “We’ve seen some memorable try celebrations over the years – Sam Tomkins in a semi-final against St Helens in Perpignan springs to mind, Sam Luckley enjoyed an Alan Shearer moment at a previous Magic Weekend and going further back with a link to the return of the Ashes this autumn, Henderson Gill’s ‘bit of a boogie’ against Australia in Sydney. “We’re intrigued to see what the current Super League players might come up with, in the knowledge that they’ll also be raising money for the MND Association.
“We thank Betfred in advance for their generosity, as we wait to see how many 180s the players deliver in Newcastle.”.
