New Zealand vs Ireland – five reasons to head to Headingley this Friday

The final fixture in Group C of the men’s tournament sees world number one team New Zealand take on Ireland at Leeds’ Emerald Headingley Stadium on October 28.

To get your tickets visit www.rlwc2021.com/tickets.

Here are five reasons why the New Zealand v Ireland is a fixture not be missed.

The Teams

New Zealand team will take some beating at RLWC2021. In their opening two fixtures, against Lebanon and Jamaica, the Kiwis’ class has shone through and pretty much booked them a spot on the last eight.

Looking to keep the momentum going while putting on a show for the travelling fans, Michael Maguire’s side will arrive at Headingley with the wind in their sails and looking to lay down another marker.

For Ireland, who put on one of the performances of the group stage in their opener against Jamaica, qualification is still possible, despite losing their second fixture in a tightly contested fixture against Lebabon.

If the Irish were to pull off what could be one of the biggest upsets in Rugby League World Cup history, this would be a day the fans in Leeds would never forget.

Star Players

Following four tries in the opening two games, Kiwis winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak is certainly going to excite those in attendance at Headingley. The rapid winger will have his sights set on Australia’s Josh Addo-Carr as the tournament’s top try scorer, and Ireland will have a battle on their hands to stop the flying winger.

For Ireland, captain George King has been leading by example so far at RLWC2021, and if an upset is on the cards, King will have to be at his warrior-like best.

Players from Super League and the NRL will grace the field for what is sure to be a brilliant match, with plenty at stake in Group C.

The atmosphere

Leeds fans are known for their rugby league knowledge and passion, and with New Zealand and Ireland coming to town, Headingley is sure to absolutely bouncing on Friday evening under the floodlights.

Whether you’re a seasoned rugby league fan, or a first timer looking for a new sport to experience, this is the perfect game, with an atmosphere which is sure to get the whole city buzzing and kick off your weekend in style.

The history

This may well be the last Rugby League World Cup to arrive on English soil for a very long time. For fans looking to be a part of history, in a tournament which is set to be remembered for its ground-breaking inclusivity as well as unmatched quality, New Zealand vs Ireland at The Emerald Headingley Stadium is a perfect fixture to attend.

The affordability

Rugby League World Cup 2021 organisers have shown their dedication to providing fans with affordably priced matches, giving everyone the best possible chance to experience a once-in-a-lifetime sporting event. Fans can watch New Zealand vs Ireland from just £15 for concessions and £25 for adults, this Friday, October 28, at 19:30pm.