ST HELENS hope to build on their Magic Weekend outing at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium by pulling in football fans of both clubs in Liverpool.
Just a 15-mile motorway journey separates the locations, and Liverpool’s women’s team play at Saints’ BrewDog Stadium.
Meanwhile Everton defender James Tarkowski spent time with Saints players as they prepared for their meeting with Wigan, which formed the Magic finale and resulted in a thrilling 16-14 defeat.
Everton supporter Jackson Hastings and teammates Matty Lees, Shane Wright and Tristan Sailor welcomed Tarkowski, who took on a variety of Rugby League challenges, including tackling, kicking and conversions, and some from football, showcasing a crossover between the sports.
Saints coach Paul Rowley believes Magic was a great chance to showcase the sport – and his club – in Liverpool.
“We’re bringing the game to a different part of the world, and that’s fantastic,” he told the St Helens Star.
“I think there’s already some good collaboration going on between our club and Everton and Liverpool.
“Obviously Liverpool Ladies play at our place, and I’m friends with the coach (Gareth Taylor).
“I know some of our players have had Everton players down, so players love it, staff love it.
“Hopefully we can get fans sharing the passion. If Everton or Liverpool have a game in London, maybe don’t bother with the travel, come to St Helens instead.
“It’s something that should never stop being driven because live sports is wonderful and the more we can work together, the better.”