GROUP Three Rugby League chairman Wayne Bridge remains 'reasonably confident' the group will show a profit from tomorrow's NRL trial between Canberra and Canterbury at the Port Macquarie Regional Stadium.
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As reported in the Times on Wednesday, Group Three has to cover the costs to stage the game. This includes the accommodation and meals for both NRL clubs and the NRL-appointed referees. This will cost the group $70,000.
The group isn't receiving any financial assistance from either NRL club or the NRL.
Mr Bridge said a crowd of 3000 would cover costs. At the time of going to press yesterday around 2400 tickets had been sold.
This included the majority of grandstand seating.
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"I'm confident we'll get a crowd of between 4000 and 5000,'' Mr Bridge said.
"Back in 2010 we got 8500 to a City/Country game at Port. They had to close the gates and I think that's the ground record.
"I know this is a trial game and not a representative match. But Canberra's coming off a grand final appearance last year while Canterbury enjoys a strong following.''
He added the fact both clubs have selected full strength teams for the match would be another attraction for spectators.
Mr Bridge admits he's disappointed the NRL isn't assisting financially to ensure the group covers costs. The NRL is meeting all costs for the trial in Bega this weekend between Penrith and Parramatta as part of the bushfire relief. Mr Bridge pointed out this region was also hit hard by bushfires.
Weather conditions are favourable. A partly cloudy day and high of 26 is forecast for Port tomorrow.
Mr Bridge said previously any profits from the game would be spread among the 18 senior and junior clubs under the Group Three umbrella.
The program will start at 12.45 with the Andrew Johns Cup (under 16) representative game between North Coast Bulldogs and Greater Northern Tigers. This will be followed by the Laurie Daley Cup (under 18) fixture, also involving North Coast and Greater Northern.
*It was reported on Thursday that the NRL was expected to announce a profit of $30 million for last season.
