NRL breaks Melbourne tradition by hosting Good Friday clash
By Scott Gullan
December 10, 2009 The AFL is under attack from another code, with the NRL breaking Melbourne sporting tradition yesterday.
Rugby league will be played on Good Friday next year, with reigning champions Melbourne Storm to host the St George Dragons at Etihad Stadium from 3.35pm.
The NRL move comes amid a war between AFL and football over the use of its indoor stadium as part of Australia's World Cup bid.
AFL boss Andrew Demetriou has consistently knocked back proposals from clubs about playing on the Easter holiday.
North Melbourne chief executive Eugene Arocca warned the AFL had to be careful about giving the NRL a free hit in their own back yard.
"As time goes by and something like this gains momentum, other codes come in and take that day in our own heartland, it starts to make you wonder when and if the AFL should do something about it," he said.
Storm chief executive Brian Waldron said the club was respectful of the religious significance of the day and would work in linking the game with the Royal Children's Hospital Appeal.
"We fully respect the religious aspect of the day, however, we would like to give people the choice to come along and support the charity by attending the game," he said.
"If we can make a success of this I would like to think on an ongoing basis an NRL Good Friday game in Melbourne will become synonymous with the Good Friday Appeal."
Carlton and Hawthorn were the latest clubs this year to make a submission to the AFL about playing on Good Friday. Reigning premiers Geelong and powerhouse Collingwood had also previously showed interest.
While the NRL has played games in the northern states on the holiday for several years, the AFL prefers to play on the Thursday night, with Brisbane to host Carlton at the Gabba on April 2.
A Footy Fans Survey of 25,000 people in June found more than 63 per cent were in support of Good Friday football. But the AFL has remained steadfast in its determination to keep the day football-free, despite acknowledging the shift in public opinion.
AFL spokesman Patrick Keane said: "Obviously the NRL has played on Good Friday for a number of years and it works really well for them, but this is just a point of difference between the two competitions."
New Hawthorn chief executive Stuart Fox last night encouraged the AFL to explore the possibility.
"I think you'd be foolish not to have a look at it. I think if you can get a big game and be promoting the right causes on the day then it's something you could do in the future," Fox said.
