Just a note about the crowd at the Warriors v Titans match over the weekend. A little over 20,000 punters made the trek to the industrial waste land that is Penrose to watch the lads play.
This was the biggest crowd since 2003. That’s right, 4 years ago. Much has been said about why the crowds have been so poor, but you don’t need a rocket scientist to tell you why.
It’s because the Warriors have not been playing well enough to attract the fringe supporter. And it’s fringe supporters that love a winner.
We also know that Mt Smart stadium is a horrible venue in the middle of no where.
We also know that the weather is damm cold for many Warriors home games.
We also know that the club has been through some horrible times since 2003.
But what’s real important is that since 2003 the Warriors have not managed a winning streak of more than 4 games. That lack of constancy has kept the fringe fans away. Say what you like about fringe or ‘fair weather’ or ‘lunch time’ supporters, the Warriors need them, rely on them in fact.
Now, they have lost 1 of their last nine, and are riding high. The vibe in Auckland is very positive about the Warriors at the moment, not unlike 2002 and 2003. Those on the fringe can’t help get caught up in the moment. The Warriors are playing an entertaining game, with many tries being started in their own half. It’s better to watch than the Air NZ Cup, thats for sure.
If they beat Canberra this weekend, I promise that more than 20,000 will turn up for the fixture against Manly which is their last home game of round robin. If they get a home semi final, then serious consideration must be taken to move the game to a bigger venue. Not that I am getting ahead of myself or anything like that.
1 comment so far ↓
Cant believe they sold the game out against Manly, but the rugby’s been boring lately and the Warriors are actually winning for once
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