IRONMEN GET READY FOR NEW SEASON
WITH a little over two weeks before the Ironmen take to the field for the first time at the impressive Wern Sports Park, director Neil Williams is delighted with how pre-season is going off the pitch.
“Season ticket sales have passed the 100 mark which is great news. Those sales include individual supporters and sponsors who have received season tickets as part of the various packages we’ve offered which have proved especially popular. The figure doesn’t include player and staff complimentary tickets so we are more than happy with the sales to date.”
As for the reasons behind the increase Williams thinks there are several contributing factors.
He said: “A huge amount of work has gone on behind the scenes since the end of last season. The rebrand seems to have had the desired effect. We’ve picked up some brilliant new sponsors who are genuinely supportive and keen to see us do well. Having Lee Byrne involved has been a big plus for us. He’s obviously got a terrific pedigree in sport and a high profile but he’s very down to earth. From day one he just rolled his sleeves up and got stuck in. He’s been working the boys hard in pre-season which should stand us in good stead when the season starts. Phil Carleton has assembled a competitive looking squad and the amount of interest from the people in Merthyr has been really pleasing.”
With two attractive preseason friendlies lined up Williams expects to have more season ticket holders on board before the first league game.
“What better way to kick off rugby league at The Wern Sports Park than with a Welsh derby? They are always passionate affairs and this game won’t be any different. I’m sure Mike Grady will feel he’s got a point to prove and Phil will be keen to get off to a good start. We get along well with the people involved with Crusaders and help each other where we can but this is a game both sides will be keen to win.
“To follow that up with a game against St Helens is a big plus for us. St Helens are a massive name in rugby league and to have them send a side down is really good of them. None of the boys want to miss either the Crusaders game or the Saints game so it’s certainly given them an edge in training.
“With free entry to both pre-season games guaranteed for season ticket holders I’m sure more supporters will take the opportunity to purchase a season ticket over the next couple of weeks.”
Supporters can purchase an early bird discounted ticket allowing entry for both the North Wales Crusaders and St Helens games for just £10 by visiting the Fanzone section of the website. http://ironmenrl.wales/ pre-season-tickets/ . Season tickets can also be purchased online http:// ironmenrl.wales/seasontickets-2017/ .