Newcastle United supporter group Wor Flags will bring St James’ Park to life for the Rugby League World Cup in October. Volunteers work tirelessly - and sometimes through the night - before each Magpies home game to help electrify the atmosphere inside the ground.
Iconic displays have been the norm since the group was founded in 2016. Since the Saudi-backed takeover was approved last year, pre-match rituals have been turned up a notch and earned the seal of approval from Eddie Howe.
Before May’s 2-0 triumph over Arsenal, Wor Flags planned their biggest performance yet as all four corners of St James’ Park produced a spine-tingling display that buoyed the players on the pitch. Over 1,200 Toon supporters donate monthly to help fund the sea of black and white before kick-off.
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Now, a fortnight before the tournament, Rugby League World Cup chiefs have announced a partnership with the supporters' group. The tournament gets underway on October 15 when England welcome Samoa to Tyneside.
Wor Flags representative Jordan Robinson has admitted he cannot wait to deliver a “Geordie welcome” to rugby fans. He said: "We can't wait to be part of a huge Geordie welcome to the Rugby League World Cup.
“Our displays always make a big impact whenever Newcastle United play and we are sure it will be the same for England v Samoa. We are asking for a few more volunteers from the toon faithful to help out on the day waving the flags.
“They will get to watch a World Cup right here at St James' Park and be part of history. Thanks to the generous donation from RLWC2021 we will be able to produce even more flags post-tournament, ensuring a real legacy for our fans."
Rugby League World Cup director Mick Hogan outlined why he asked the group to take part. He said: "We've seen the incredible displays that Wor Flags have produced at St James' Park in the past, so we're absolutely thrilled that they are on board to help make our opening day even more special.
“We're delighted that we can contribute to the group that will allow them to increase their support of the club. It's going to be an unbelievable atmosphere as we launch the tournament and one not to be missed."
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