Mustangs set for new home launch in round two

THE QRL has released statewide fixtures, with the Western Mustangs to welcome their new home ground on March 21.

Benji Neliman scores a try for Western Mustangs. Picture: Nev Madsen.

RUGBY LEAGUE: The Western Mustangs will have to wait until round two for the move to their new home base.

The QRL has released the schedule for the Hastings Deering Colts U20s and Mal Meninga Cup U18s seasons, with the Mustangs scheduled to make its home-ground debut at Clive Berghofer Stadium against the Townsville Blackhawks.

Chairman Frank Martin said the club and players were full of anticipation for their first home fixture on March 21.

“It’s exciting when you see the draw and when we will be at home,” Martin said.

“It’s big for the club. We’ve gone back to a rugby league oval and will be playing at one of the best ISC (Intrust Super Cup) playing fields and facilities.

“We’re told there’s only one ground that is equal or better, and that is at the Sunshine Coast.”

Martin said that players would be able to draw on inspiration from the sheer history associated with the ground.

“If I was an 18-year-old and coming in to have my name on the locker, it would inspire me to play out of my skin,” he said.

“It’s special to be running out onto that oval in regards to the legends of the game that have played there.”

The U20s will face a tough schedule throughout the middle rounds of the competition, with four away games in the space of five rounds.

A booking clash at the stadium will see the Mustangs take their match against Norths to Roma on August 23.

The Mal Meninga Cup season takes place over seven rounds (including a competition-wide bye), with the Mustangs home games against Townsville, Wynnum-Manly and Burleigh.

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