Hornets double crowd but no record

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Despite more than doubling their 2011 average crowd the Rochdale Hornets fell short of setting a new Co-operative Championship 1 attendance record at their game against Workington Town on Sunday (10 July).

The performance on the field though by Hornets was a great advertisement to the new spectators attracted to the game, as they won 45-20.

Another big bonus from the game was the vital funds raised for MENCAP. With the final figure still being calculated Hornets are confident MENCAP will benefit from several thousand pounds from the game.

Head Coach John Stankevitch, said: "I`m really pleased with the display from the lads today.

“They certainly responded to the atmosphere. Hopefully today’s new visitors will have been impressed enough to return when we next play at home"

Hornets have several weeks away from their Spotland home before they can gauge if some of the new spectators have become long term supporters.

But the club remains confident.

Rochdale Hornets Chairman Mark Wynn, said: "Although we didn’t set a new record, those who did come will have witnessed a dominant Hornets display, with us playing a style of Rugby which is the most exciting in the Co-operative Championships.

“We’ve learned a lot from this game. With the feedback we have received today and once we have had a full de-brief we are sure we can improve our marketing and promotion and that the crowd record is within our capabilities."

Hornets are again going to be working with a charity in August when they work with Springhill Hospice.

Hornets play Gateshead Thunder on Sunday 21 August, in a specially commissioned kit in the colours of the Hospice. The special edition kit is available to purchase with £12 from every kit sale being donated to Springhill Hospice.