BRAD ARTHUR has fond memories of attending Magic Round in his native Australia as a spectator, but will be on the other side of things as his Leeds Rhinos take on rivals Bradford Bulls on Sunday.

Magic Weekend heads to Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool for the first time – a third different venue for Arthur to coach at after Elland Road in 2024 (Leeds lost 24-6 to Warrington) and St James’ Park (a 17-4 win over St Helens.

“I like the idea,” Arthur admitted. “When I was back in Australia, I thought it was a really good concept, but it was obviously started over here, so the NRL copied it.

“I really like it, getting all the fans together and getting all the teams, especially at this time of the year where there could be a couple of teams that haven’t got a heap to play for, in terms of their fans thinking that they’re not going to be playing in finals at the end of the year.

“I think it gives all the fans that haven’t had an opportunity to come and watch all the teams, and with plenty of excitement.

“I think all the boys enjoy it too actually; I think that’s probably the main priority, that all the players get up for it, take centre stage, and get the opportunity to showcase their skills.

“I had the beauty of sitting in the crowd (at Australia’s version) and I watched a couple of games, and I really enjoyed It. I got part of it on the atmosphere side, I haven’t had chance to do it over here, but I really enjoyed the concept of that. I think it’s a great idea.”

Whilst Arthur is not familiar with Hill Dickinson Stadium, he hailed the chance for his players to take to the field at one of the country’s newest large-scale sporting venues.

“I don’t know much about it, but it looks like a great place to play,” he said.

“It’s an exciting opportunity that these players get, you don’t get to play on a soccer pitch very often, and a new one. That’s another nice place for the players.”