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Wests Tigers plan to expand Campbelltown capacity by asking fans to stand as a sell-out crowd looms against Brisbane.
Wests Tigers will ask supporters to stand on the hill at Campbelltown Stadium this weekend as the club looks to maximise capacity for its Round 7 clash with Brisbane.
The move comes amid a surge in support for Benji Marshall's side, who are chasing a fourth straight win and are expected to draw a sell-out crowd against the reigning premiers. More than 15,000 fans attended last Sunday's win over Newcastle at the same venue, a result that lifted the Tigers to second on the ladder.
Chief executive Shaun Mielekamp said the club is targeting a crowd of more than 17,000, with plans to create space for up to 2000 additional spectators. That includes encouraging fans to stand on the hill, a change expected to accommodate around 1300 extra people compared to the previous match.
An additional 500 spots will also be opened in an area typically reserved for Channel Nine's broadcast marquee. With the network not televising Saturday night's game, the club has been able to reclaim that section to increase overall capacity.
Mielekamp indicated the adjustment reflects the different match setting, noting a Saturday night fixture is more suited to standing crowds than a family-focused Sunday afternoon timeslot.
On the field, the Tigers enter the contest in strong form and face a Brisbane side dealing with significant disruption. The Broncos could be without up to 10 players, including fullback Reece Walsh, who is sidelined with a fractured eye socket, and Ben Hunt, who is managing an MCL injury.
Hooker Blake Mozer has also been ruled out after suffering a broken jaw last week, while Patrick Carrigan is suspended for two matches following a high tackle. Captain Adam Reynolds and forward Jordan Riki remain in doubt and will need to prove their fitness at training.
Brisbane are seeking clearance for Cory Paix to play after a head knock was initially classified as category one. The club hopes it can be downgraded following a successful HIA, pending an independent review.
