New Magic Weekend plan has flaws

SUPER League's Magic Weekend looks set to be shelved, at least for the foreseeable future, following plans to expand the top-flight competition and scrap loop fixtures.

- Josh McAllister

While few in the sport would argue against the removal of loop fixtures, the move appears to spell the end of Magic Weekend as fans have come to know and enjoy it.

This comes despite earlier plans to return the event to St James’ Park next year - although no concrete date had been set.

This year's Magic Weekend drew a crowd of 64,156 as it returned to the North East.

However, the format now faces a major overhaul, with early suggestions pointing towards integrating it into the Challenge Cup schedule instead, writes Josh McAllister.