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Rivals get a taste of Park life

3/ 5/2006

THE vociferous support from Sale Sharks' fans provided the inspiration for the team's thrilling bonus point victory against Bath on Friday.

And even better news for supporters is that they will be able to do it all over again, because the 38-12 win ensured that Sharks will battle for a place in the Twickenham final in front of a home crowd, on Sunday May 14 (kick-off 1.30pm).

Sale's director of rugby, Philippe Saint-Andre, explained: "The vocal support of the crowd played a crucial part against Bath. It was their noise and energy that inspired the players to score three late tries."

That support will be just as crucial if Sharks are to achieve their ultimate aim - winning the Championship.

"Finishing at the top of the Premiership has been a fantastic achievement, but we haven't yet won the Guinness Premiership," Saint-Andre said.

"Without the trophy, the club will not receive the recognition it deserves in years to come as the best team in England for 2005/06 season.

"The players, the club and the supporters deserve the right to be Guinness Premiership Champions and to lift the trophy at Twickenham."

Sharks, who still have one more regular league match to play against Northampton Saints, will face the Premiership's fourth place finisher in the semi-final, likely to be Gloucester or London Wasps.

Seats for the semi-final on May 14 are not included in the season ticket, so all supporters need to book tickets to secure their place for the most important game of rugby ever played at Edgeley Park.

Season ticket holders have until 5pm on Friday to purchase their seats. Over 2,500 tickets have already been sold and the club has been inundated with bookings since tickets went on general sale on Tuesday morning.

After the Sharks match the other semi-final, between second and third in the league, will be shown live on screens throughout Edgeley Park.

The pitch and goalposts will also be made accessible after the match, allowing supporters to enjoy the spring day and practice a few Charlie Hodgson style kicks at goal.

To book tickets for the semi-final, call Sharks' ticket office on 08712 220 120 between 8am-6pm Monday to Friday or visit www.salesharks.com.

• TO enhance the Championship atmosphere at Edgeley Park on May 14, Sharks are inviting rugby teams from clubs and schools from across the north west to parade their silverware on the pitch before the semi-final.

Among the teams already involved are Powergen Intermediate Cup winners Stockport.

If your winning team would like to take part email rob.mcevoy@salesharks.co.uk or call 0161 2868888 ext 260.