Rugby: Hornets host colleges final

Hopwood Hall Rugby League Academy v Halifax Elite Academy

The final of the Colleges National Cup competition with Rochdale’s own Hopwood Hall Rugby League Academy and Halifax Elite Academy promises to be a fantastic show of Rugby League.

The game kicks off at the Crown Oil Arena, at 7.00pm on Wednesday 10 May.

Hopwood Hall, coached by former Hornets player Matt Calland have had another hugely successful season in the Premier Division, already being crowned League Champions earlier on in the year when they sealed the title with an 18-26 win over Wakefield College.

The final will act as a decider between both the Hopwood and Halifax teams, with both colleges taking one game a piece during the regular league season.

Hopwood Halls Interim Sports Manager Mat Gartland said “Everyone at the college is excited for this game. The Rugby Academy have worked hard all year and it would be great to end their season with another trophy. We’re also really pleased that we could get the game arranged at The Crown Oil Arena. It’ll be a great experience for the lads”.

Entrance to the game has been set at only £1, whilst car parking is free on a first come first served basis. Turnstiles open at 6pm, and match programmes will be available to purchase. The main lounge will also be open for hot food and refreshments from 6pm onwards, and can be accessed from inside the ground.

This will be the last game to be hosted at the Arena until Alan Kilshaws’ Rochdale Hornets side face Bradford Bulls on the 18 July, due to the annual pitch maintenance.