Newcastle Jets trial game to stay in Port Macquarie

The stadium hosted the game on July 17 for the second successive year, with FMNC Northern and Southern selections having half a game each against the 2017/18 A-League grand finalists.

The game in Port Macquarie drew a crowd of 4200, up on the 2017 figure, FMNC chairman Mike Parsons said.

He described the night as ‘absolutely sensational.’ 

“Newcastle CEO Lawrie McKinna and coach Ernie Merrick were ecstatic with the response and the organisation of the visit,’’ Mr Parsons said.

“We had a lot more children and family groups there this year – it was a great atmosphere.’’

FMNC Southern coach Rod Bartley from Taree had urged the Football Mid North Coast Coast board to switch the game to either Taree or Forster-Tuncurry next year should the Jets return. 

Bartley argued in the Manning River Times on June 22 that supporters in this part of the zone should have the opportunity to see the Jets play without having to travel to Port.

Mr Parsons said it has yet to be confirmed the Jets will be back next year, although he remains optimistic this will happen.

“Our connection with the Jets is strong and I’m confident they’ll return,’’ he said.

It has been reported there were some concerns with the lighting at the Regional Stadium game, although Mr Parsons wouldn’t elaborate, saying he will discuss the matter in full next week.

“But it does underline how badly we need a regional facility to call our own in this area where we can host these type of matches,’’ he said.

He hopes to speak to new MidCoast Council general manager Adrian Panuccio regarding the concept. 

Mr Parsons said he wouldn’t rule out the game coming south in 2019.

However, he added FMNC has a strong working relationship with the Hastings Port Macquarie Council, saying council supported this week’s visit through sponsorship as well as providing the facility.

“Unless something changes dramatically I would say the game would be played in Port again next year,’’ Mr Parsons said.