Richards relishing Darlington trip as Falcons fly south
The largest dedicated club rugby ground in England was the training base for eventual champions New Zealand during last year’s Rugby World Cup, and within the past month has hosted both Newcastle United and Sunderland football clubs.
Richards visited the 25,000-capacity venue this week as the Falcons prepare for Saturday’s 3pm kick-off, the Falcons’ boss declaring himself impressed with the stadium and playing surface.
He said: “The pitch is looking fantastic, the stadium is brilliant and obviously Darlington is not too far from Newcastle. It is only an hour down the road, so we’re looking forward it.”
Darlington’s arena has hosted the Falcons on one previous occasion, back in 2014 when the Premiership 7s were moved there due to the ongoing installation of Newcastle’s artificial pitch.
Richards said: “The facilities really are fantastic at Darlington Mowden Park. For us this game is about getting down here and making the most of the day and the occasion.”
Tickets for Saturday’s game against Nottingham are priced £10 for adults and £5 for under-16s by calling the Falcons’ box office on 0871 226 6060. Tickets are also available both in advance and on the day via Darlington Mowden Park, with match-day parking free of charge.
