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The tightly contested West Coast Eagles and Adelaide Crows clash at Alice Springs Traeger Park on Friday night was a resounding success Sports Minister Kon Vatskalis said today.

 

“The attendance was over 11,000 people – for a town of around 28,000 it is remarkable for what was a ‘practice’ game,” Minister Vatskalis said.

 

“Territorians love their footy, it’s part of our great lifestyle, these crowds are proof that the Martin Government’s investment in bringing top class AFL action to Territorians is worth every cent.

 

“Let’s put this amazing crowd in perspective: the Gold Coast is home to half a million people and they could only attract 7,728 people for an AFL NAB Cup semi final.

 

“The AFL is a national competition and they are looking for more games outside Melbourne, with the Gold Coast as a priority.

 

“However, TIO Stadium regularly attracts bigger crowds than Aurora in Tasmania, Carrara in the Gold Coast and Manuka in Canberra who all have bigger population bases.

 

“The AFL should consider more games in the Territory because Territorians will support it.

 

“June 16 – mark it in your calendar now because the Darwin Doggies will be playing the Dockers and you better get your tickets early.

 

“Football is part of the Territory lifestyle and as long as Territorians keep supporting these matches the Martin Government will keep working hard to deliver them to Territorians,” said Minister Vatskalis.

 

Media Contact: Ryan Neve (08) 8901 4182 or 0401 119 609