Big crowd expected to pack park at shield defence

Magpies fans show their support. Photo / Duncan Brown

Officials are expecting a packed park at the Magpies' crucial final defence of the Ranfurly Shield this Saturday.

Hawke's Bay Rugby Union commercial manager Jay Campbell said ticket sales were "progressing nicely" ahead of Saturday's ITM Cup match against the Southland Stags.

He expected 12,000 or more punters at the game, with a family ticket deal proving especially popular.

The package, introduced during school holidays, costs $32.50 for two adults and up to four children, for seats in the TicketDirect stand.

Mr Campbell said the 5.35pm kick-off on Saturday would be "a perfect time for family and kids".

Four hundred tickets were sold yesterday and there have been more than 6000 sold overall already.

A big home crowd will give the Magpies a boost in their last defence of the Ranfurly Shield, which they've retained through three challenges since August.

Hawke's Bay may need the extra support after the Manawatu Turbos leapfrogged them into first spot in the championship with a comprehensive 29-3 win last Sunday.

"We're determined to pack the park. It's our last home game before we lock up the shield. It's imperative we have a big home crowd when the Stags run out on Saturday afternoon."

The weather forecast for Napier on game day is mainly fine with a high of 17C and northeasterly winds, according to the MetService.