Gatland excited for Friday night lights
Thu, 15 Apr 2010 11:54
Wales coach Warren Gatland has hailed the decision to open the Six Nations on a Friday night, and he cannot contain his excitement at facing arch-rivals England at the Millenium Stadium on February 4.
The tournament will kick-off on a Friday for the first time in its history, and the February clash will be only the third Six Nations match to take place on a Friday night.
Gatland acknowledged that not everyone will be happy about the night game, but the Wales boss is certainly not one of them, saying that innovations are 'good for the tournament.'
"It's a fantastic draw, with the first game being England at home on a Friday night, which is exciting.
"We've had Friday night fixtures for a couple of years now but it's still an exciting new innovation for the tournament.
"As far as Friday nights are concerned, the players are used to them from the Magners League, so it will make no difference to us at all.
"It may take some time to settle in as far as supporters are concerned but, personally, I would find it quite exciting as you can make an evening of it at your local rugby club, make it a real occasion then have the weekend to play games or do other things.
"People are still getting used to it and there will be some objections but I think it's good for the tournament."
The former Wasps and Ireland coach makes no secret of the fact that an opening game against England is a good chance for revenge, after Wales went down 30-17 to the same opponents in their opening game of this year's tournament.
"It's definitely a chance for revenge." said Gatland, who is also relishing the prospect of an away trip to France in the final match of the championship.
"In the last two or three Six Nations tournaments, the last game has been a decider and if that's the case again next season, that will be great."
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