The nib Newcastle Knights will host the Parramatta Eels in a trial match at Maitland on Saturday February 24.

It will be a huge day of football at the No.1 Sportsground, with five games scheduled including the Under 16s, 18s, 20s and Reserve Grade before the NRL match.

“This will be the Club’s final trial match before the season proper kicks off and what a wonderful occasion it will be to play this trial at Maitland’s No.1 Sportsground,” Knights CEO Philip Gardner said.

“With a host of new recruits joining the Club this season, this trial match will be a great opportunity for our fans to see those players in action for the very first time.”

The match has been made possible due to a partnership between the two clubs and Maitland City Council.

Maitland Mayor Loretta Baker said, “We’re excited to have both the Newcastle and Parramatta teams coming to Maitland in February.

“Obviously the Knights are the Hunter’s very own team but we understand there are also a lot of Eels fans around the city so we’re hoping this match will draw a big local crowd.”

Work began last year at Maitland’s No. 1 Sportsground, with the demolition of the old grandstand and the construction of a new multi-million dollar stand.

Tickets will go on sale to Members from Friday, with the match going on sale to the public from Monday online or over the counter at the Maitland Visitor Information Centre.

Tickets are $20 for grandstand seating, $10 for general admission and while children under 12 are free, a ticket will still need to be booked for each child along with the adult ticket.

Members will receive further details on Friday, with information on how to purchase tickets.