Colwyn Bay will host the inaugural IRB International Rugby Series across two wonderful weekends and give the fans of the oval ball in the north the chance to witness world class action on their doorstep.
And not to be left out, there will be local involvement on the second weekend when the newly formed, high-flying RGC side play against Penallta as a curtain raiser to the two internationals.
Gogledd Cymru general manager Rupert Moon said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for North Wales to grab the rugby spotlight and showcase the depth of feeling and support there is in the area for Wales’ national game.
“What the WRU and IRB have be able to do in bringing Russia, USA, Samoa, Tonga and Canada to play up here in North Wales is simply fantastic.
“What we aim to do is put on a show to prove beyond all doubt that there is a home for international rugby in North Wales.
“The last time the two superpowers of Russia and USA met was at the World Cup in New Zealand. And don’t forget there is a strong Welsh link to Russian rugby given their coach is the former international wing-forward Kingsley Jones.
“The Samoans met Wales at the World Cup and ran them close and there is already a strong bond between the Canadians and North Wales following our recent playing links with a number of their high performance players.”
But what is exciting Moon more than anything is the opportunity for his near table-topping RGC side to join in the international action by playing as the curtain raiser on weekend two.
The North Walian side have taken Swalec Division One East by storm this season, losing only once in a start that has been beyond the wildest dreams of Moon and his coaching staff.
“For these players to get the chance to rub shoulders with some major international stars is going to be fantastic. It is bound to give them a boost and, more importantly, an insight into what it takes to become an international,” added Moon.
“I’ve been mightily impressed with the way in which the local talent has taken to playing in their new league and they have done it the hard way by playing the majority of their games away from home.
“What the international window at Eiras will give them is a chance to put on a show in front of their own fans and to lay down a marker for the rest of the season.”
Russia kick-off the international action against USA at 6pm on Friday, November 9, before Samoa face Canada immediately after.
On Saturday, November 17, hard-hitting Tonga clash with USA, which again is followed Canada versus Russia.
Tickets start from £11 and are available from www.venuecymru.co.uk or by calling the ticket office on 01492 872000.
