This article is from the source 'bbc' and was first published or seen on . It last changed over 40 days ago and won't be checked again for changes.
You can find the current article at its original source at http://www.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/int/news/-/news/uk-wales-15237150
The article has changed 9 times. There is an RSS feed of changes available.
Version 0 | Version 1 |
---|---|
Millennium Stadium open for Wales-France World Cup semi | Millennium Stadium open for Wales-France World Cup semi |
(about 3 hours later) | |
The Millennium Stadium will open its doors on Saturday to allow thousands of supporters the chance to watch Wales' World Cup semi-final on big screens. | |
Fans will be given free entry to watch the match, which kicks off in Auckland at 09:00 BST on Saturday. | Fans will be given free entry to watch the match, which kicks off in Auckland at 09:00 BST on Saturday. |
More details are expected to be announced later following discussions. | More details are expected to be announced later following discussions. |
The match is being billed as one of the biggest in Welsh rugby history as Wales seek to reach a World Cup final for the first time. | The match is being billed as one of the biggest in Welsh rugby history as Wales seek to reach a World Cup final for the first time. |
Wales beat Ireland 22-10 on Saturday in a performance which has been lauded by supporters and pundits alike. | Wales beat Ireland 22-10 on Saturday in a performance which has been lauded by supporters and pundits alike. |
Stadium bosses hope fans will want to share the experience of watching what is only Wales' second World Cup semi-final. | Stadium bosses hope fans will want to share the experience of watching what is only Wales' second World Cup semi-final. |
Supporters who want to watch the game live at Eden Park are currently scrambling for the various match packages that are available. | |
Despite the current financial climate, the chance to see Wales in a World Cup semi-final is proving very tempting, say travel operators. | |
Various packages are available with one company offering flights, match tickets for both semi-finals and three nights accommodation for around £2,500. | |
Another firm is offering three nights in Auckland on board a cruise liner, including tickets for both semi-finals but no flights, for £999. | |
At the higher end of the scale, there are luxury packages available for flights, tickets to both semi-finals, third place play-off and the final, and accommodation for the duration for about £8,500. | |
Jim Strachan, director of Strachan Sports Travel in the Vale of Glamorgan, said: "It's been absolutely hectic. | |
Ringing off the hook | |
"I think it's just the fact that the Welsh team are playing so well. We would not be surprised to see them in the final." | |
He said most people were heading out on Tuesday or Wednesday though, at a push, it was just about possible to make it by leaving on Thursday. | |
Thomas Cook Sport also said phones had been "very, very busy" on Monday morning. | |
And a spokesperson for Gullivers Sports Travel said: "Our phone has been pretty much ringing off the hook this [Monday] morning. | |
"We're having a massive amount of interest from Welsh fans." | |
For those wanting to watch the game at home, many pubs opened early around Wales last Saturday to allow fans to watch the win over Ireland. | |
That match kicked off at 06:00 BST so at least those going out this Saturday will have a few extra hours in bed. | |
Are you thinking of flying out to the big game? If not, where are you going to be watching it? |