Eagles move to Bramall Lane

16 October 2009 11:58
Friday's announcement signals an end to rugby league at the Don Valley Stadium after 20 years. The Co-operative Championship club say the move re-emphasises their determination to win back their place in Super League and makes Bramall Lane available to host major rugby league events. The Eagles were disappointed that attendances failed to match improved performances this year when the team finished third in the table and are hoping that Bramall Lane will generate an atmosphere that was lacking at Don Valley. Sheffield chairman Ian Swire said: "The reasons frequently given for spectators not attending matches at Don Valley are the distance from the stand to the pitch and the irregular kick-off times. "These problems will be remedied by moving to Bramall Lane and reverting to regular Sunday afternoon kick-offs." Swire added: "Sheffield United are keen to increase the usage of Bramall Lane and see the Eagles as a compatible partner. "They are also keen to attract the 2013 Rugby League World Cup and other big rugby league games to the city and we intend to assist them to achieve this." Sheffield head coach Mark Aston said: "We've had 20 years at Don Valley Stadium and it's a good facility but it can't give us what we need - atmosphere on match days." The move needs to be ratified by both the Rugby Football League and the Football Association.

Source: Team_Talk