Magic Friday is bigger and better in 2016, as Newcastle Thunder confirms Kingston Park Stadium will host a total of three matches, on the Friday evening before the Dacia Magic Weekend.

Ahead of the Kingstone Press League 1 clash against York City Knights, which kicks off at 8pm, two teams from the British Army will take on sides from the North East to get the evening started in style.

The action will begin at 4pm, when the Army’s A side will take on an invitational North East Origin select team, that will be made up from some of the most talented players from grassroots clubs.

Then from 6pm, the full British Army first team will take on Newcastle Thunder’s reserves, offering the chance for members of the Thunder squad and academy side to face the challenge from stern opponents.

The additional fixtures promise to add to what is already shaping up to be an exciting evening at Kingston Park, and are games that Thunder coach Michael Heap says are important.

He said: “The two games against the Army are going to be good fixtures and are massively important for us as a club. The first game against the A side will be a good opportunity for players from outside the club to stand up, and show us what they can do against a good standard of opposition.

“The game for Thunder’s reserves is equally important, as it will give us a chance to give game time to the first team squad who are in need of it and to look at some of the senior academy lads, and see what they can do playing against adult players.”

With a large community of forces personnel based in the North East, Thunder are offering these fans the opportunity to come and support their army colleagues and enjoy Thunder versus Knights, by offering forces tickets for a fiver.

To order your tickets simply call ‘Thunder on 0871 226 6060, when collecting your tickets you must show a valid MoD90/ Military ID Card. Alternatively you can purchase tickets on the day but again you must show a valid MoD90/ Military ID Card.