NRL game in Mackay inspiring Cutters to reach elite levels in rugby league

Not only will it be great for the rugby league fans in Mackay to witness an NRL game in their backyard, but also for the Cutters players who dream of reaching the elite level.

Dylan Brown of the Eels scores a try during the round nine NRL match between the Parramatta Eels and the Sydney Roosters at Bankwest Stadium on May 07, 2021, in Sydney, Australia. Picture: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

The bright lights of the NRL are arriving in Mackay, and it is the perfect chance for the region’s rugby league players to be inspired by the elites of the game.

That is the message Cutters coach Michael Crawley is giving to his team, as well as the wider Mackay community ahead of the Roosters and Eels clash on Thursday.

Crawley said the NRL’s decision to relocate a major game to BB Print Stadium gave the Cutters a chance to watch players compete at the next level.

“It certainly gives them the sense that if they work hard they can achieve the same,” he said.

“Hopefully it inspires them to reach for bigger and better things, and push them to reach that NRL standard.”

Maika Sivo of the Eels scores a try, which was then disallowed by the video referee during the round nine NRL match between the Parramatta Eels and the Sydney Roosters at Bankwest Stadium on May 07, 2021, in Sydney, Australia. Picture: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

Crawley said he was excited to welcome two big NRL teams to Mackay and showcase the town to the rest of Australia.

“I’m really excited for the town, especially for our club to be able to showcase it here at our ground,” he said.

“I think the NRL sides will be pleasantly surprised by how good the surfaces of the ground will be, I know our groundskeepers have been working really hard on the field to get it right.”

Dylan Brown of the Eels makes a break to score a try during the round nine NRL match between the Parramatta Eels and the Sydney Roosters at Bankwest Stadium on May 07, 2021, in Sydney, Australia. Picture: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

Tickets for the Sydney Roosters and Parramatta Eels clash were sold out just hours after they became available, and Crawley said it showed Mackay deserved more games.

“The facilities are great here, the weather is great and I think it gives the town a chance to showcase what’s on offer in the north,” he said.

“It shows the Mackay fans love their footy and have earned this, so hopefully we can grab a few more games before the season ends.”