Capturing the Magic

The Betfred Super League Rugby Magic Weekend returned to St James' Park in Newcastle on the
3rd and 4th of June 2023, bringing two days of exhilarating rugby action that at times left fans on the edge of their seats. The opening day of the Magic Weekend treated fans to three gripping matches that set the tone for the action-packed weekend. The 2023 Magic Weekend attracted a crowd of 36,943 on Saturday, creating an exhilarating atmosphere as fans filled the stands with their team colours and passionate chants. On Sunday, the excitement continued as 26,326 fans flocked to St James' Park, totalling an impressive attendance of 63,269 over the course of the weekend.

​The Magic Weekend is more than just a sporting event; it is a vibrant tapestry of fans' passion, emotions, and unwavering support. As an avid photographer, I eagerly anticipate this annual event, wanting to capture the very essence of the weekend and encapsulating it in vivid imagery. 

Setting the tone for an spectacular weekend of thrilling rugby league battles. The opening day of the Magic Weekend was ignited by the showdown between Salford Red Devils and Hull KR. As the teams locked horns, the stadium resonated with the echoes of competing chants from both sets of fans, showcasing the incredible support and enthusiasm for their clubs. However, there can only be one winner, with Salford emerging victorious with a final score of 26-16. 
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​Next up was the highly anticipated clash between Catalan Dragons and Wigan Warriors, which turned out to be a high-scoring affair. Catalans displayed their attacking prowess, securing an impressive
46-22 victory over Wigan, and ultimately leaving the weekend at the top of the table. The match was filled with sensational tries and electrifying moments, leaving fans in awe of Catalans' performance.

The highlight of the day came in the match between Castleford and Leeds Rhinos. In a closely contested battle, Castleford Tigers managed to edge past the Rhinos with a thrilling 26-24 victory.
The match showcased the intense rivalry and the sheer willpower of both teams, providing fans with
a nail-biting spectacle. The air was filled with an electric energy as fans passionately supported their teams, engaging in good-natured banter. Their vocal cheers, chants, and applause created an atmosphere that elevated the matches to new heights, and left fans thinking ahead to the next day of the action.

The second day of the Magic Weekend delivered three more captivating matches, each offering its own share of drama and excitement. Leigh faced Wakefield in a clash that saw Leigh Leopards dominate with a commanding 30-4 win. Their impressive performance thrilled the crowd
and showcased their strength as a rising force in the Super League. While the loss for Wakefield kept them at the bottom of the table, despite a red card for the Leopards.

In the middle of the afternoon, St Helens proved their championship credentials with a dominant display against Huddersfield Giants. With an incredible 48-6 victory, St Helens demonstrated their class and left fans in awe of their exceptional skills.

​The weekend concluded with a thrilling encounter between Hull FC and Warrington Wolves. In a closely fought battle, Hull FC emerged as the victors, securing a hard-fought 30-18 win over Warrington. The match showcased the determination and skill of both teams, providing a fitting
finale to an unforgettable weekend.