Friday 27 July, 2012

For the first time in six years, top level Australian football returns to Tamworth when the Newcastle Jets take on the back-to-back A-League champions the Brisbane Roar on Saturday September 1 at Scully Park.

It will be the second time the Jets have visited the region to play an A-League pre-season game, while the Roar will be coming to Tamworth for the first time.

Both clubs feature some of the most talented footballers in the country plus international stars such as former English Premier League star Michael Bridges, German international Thomas Broich and last year’s Golden Boot winner Besart Berisha.

The game, to be known at the Northern Inland Football A-League Challenge, is an important hit out as the teams gear up for the start of the A-League season in early October.

Business Events Manager at Destination Tamworth Gavin Flanagan said the game is a great opportunity for the local community to experience Australian football at its best.

`Both of these clubs love to play an attractive style of football. Brisbane have proven themselves to be the best club side in Australia, having enjoyed that amazing run of 36 unbeaten games, a Australian record in any football code,’ he said.

‘Both teams are committed to the development of the game and are excited to be coming to Tamworth.’ 

Newcastle Jets Coach Gary van Egmond said the Tamworth match will form an important part of the side’s preparation for the new season. ‘We look forward to a great game against reigning champions Brisbane Roar as we continue our preparation for the 2012/13 season,’ he said.

Jets CEO Robbie Middleby said it is great to be taking an A-League trial game to Tamworth and ‘showcasing our game to our Northern NSW region’.

Brisbane Roar coach Rado Vidosic said the Tamworth match ‘is a vital component’ of preparations for the Hyundai A-League season.

‘As part of the bigger picture, it is important to help spread the football word throughout regional Australia,’ he said.

Tickets will be available through West Tamworth Leagues Club or at www.wtlc.com.au from Wednesday 1 August.

The Northern Inland Football A-League Challenge is proudly supported by Northern Inland Football, Destination Tamworth, ATAC, Wests Entertainment Group, NBN Television, The Northern Daily Leader and 2TM/92.9.