The Wire 34 - Giants 30

A friend had asked if I fancied going to watch Warrington this afternoon, as his nephews - who are season ticket holders - could not go.

So I went - the first Rugby League game I have been to for - well, it must be 30 years, or thereabouts.

It's changed in that time - a lot more razzmatazz - cheerleaders, loud music (does Damon Albarn collect royalties), and loads of advertising and sponsorship. It's a great family atmosphere, very different to the football matches I have been to. And the local supporters certainly get behind their club. This is real Rugby League country. Three of the four sides of the Halliwell Jones stadium were packed with Warrington supporters, the Huddersfield end was thinner. But although few in number, they were right behind their team.

Warrington promote themselves as Warrington Wolves, but on the scoreboard it lists them as The Wire - the old name. This was once wire manufacturing land. Not sure why Huddersfield are the Giants - although their players were certainly big.

Warrington won - just. It was a good game (not that I understand all the rules), and a close call.