‘Magical’ debut excites Flanagan

RUGBY LEAGUE’S MAGIC WEEKEND

ST HELENS utility forward Mark Flanagan will not want for motivation when he makes his first Magic Weekend appearance against his former team Wigan Warriors at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday (6pm).

Former Saddleworth Rangers youngster Flanagan, who spent two seasons with West Tigers in the NRL between leaving Wigan and joining Saints, has previously missed out on the unique sporting concept which hosts a full round of Stobart Super League fixtures in one venue over a single weekend.

“I’ve never had the chance to play in a ‘Magic’ event before so I am really looking forward to my debut,” said the 24-year-old, son of Oldham and Great Britain star Terry.

“It will be a great occasion and the move to Manchester’s Etihad Stadium should hopefully draw in a huge crowd so we can have a great weekend of rugby league.

“One of the greatest aspects of our sport is the friendly interaction between different fans from every club that enjoy rugby league together.

“We have witnessed this at Wembley finals and now we have the opportunity through the Magic Weekends, which is even better because every Super League club is playing.”

There is added excitement for the St Helens player as the local rivalry fixture pits Flanagan against his former team following two previous defeats against the Warriors this campaign.

He said: “The local derby matches against Wigan are great spectacles for fans and great games to be involved in.

“It’s a bit different playing against your old team-mates and I have some good friends at Wigan, but I am fully committed to St Helens and I am looking to get the two points on Sunday.”