Steve Gartland to be honoured at the Conference Challenge Trophy Final

Steve Gartland

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On what would have been his 46th birthday, Steve Gartland's family will present the man-of-the-match award, named in the late rugby league star's honour, at the 2016 Conference Challenge Trophy Final.

The game will be held at Manchester Regional Arena on Saturday 8 October, the same day as the First Utility Super League Grand Final.

As part of a day-long celebration of rugby league in Manchester, the game will kick off at 1.30pm at the 6,500-capacity stadium, which is the former home of Manchester City's Women's team.

Third tier champions Hunslet Club Parkside will take on Premier Division play-off hopefuls Rochdale Mayfield, where Gartland was a long-standing member, in the showpiece event.

Parkside shocked holders Leigh Miners Rangers 24-22 on the road in round one, before thrashing Leigh East 49-24 away from home.

Their progress to the semi-final was secured with a steely 20-12 win at Thatto Heath Crusaders, before they entertained a crowd of over 500 on home turf as they eased past Milford Marlins 21-6 to seal their place in the final two weeks ago.

In the other camp, Mayfield opened their 2016 Conference Challenge Trophy campaign with a 54-6 win over Bradford Dudley Hill, before coming out on top in an 80-point thriller 44-36 against Saddleworth Rangers.

Arguably their most impressive result saw a 43-16 semi-final win against Wigan St Patrick's, before they edged out Featherstone Lions 39-28 to seal their progress to the final.

At the request of Steve Gartland's family, the game will be preceded by a minute's applause in celebration of his contribution to the sport.

The Gartland family will also present the Conference Challenge Trophy to the winners.

The match will be part of a double-header at the Manchester Regional Arena, with England Lions Youth taking on Wales Youth, 11am kick off.

Entry on the gate is £5 for adults, £2 for OAPs and £1 for under 16s, while a family ticket costs £10.

Fixtures
8 October 2016
England Lions Youth v Wales Youth - friendly international - 11am
Rochdale Mayfield v Hunslet Club Parkside - Conference Challenge Trophy Final - 1.30pm
Manchester Regional Arena, Rowsley Street, Manchester M11 3FF

Tickets
Adults - £5
OAPs - £2
Under 16s - £1
Family Ticket (2 adults, 2 under 16s) - £10

Parking
Free of charge at the stadium

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