BJB hails Magic WKND as the Knights prepare for Magic debut at Everton

Only England’s greatest-ever scorer Ryan Hall has amassed more Magic WKND tries than Ben Jones-Bishop so it’s little wonder he’s such a fan of the concept. 

The York Knights winger has scored 11 times in Super League’s big summer festival [compared to Hall’s 13] crossing for Leeds Rhinos, Wakefield Trinity and Salford Red Devils. 

Jones-Bishop, who turns 38 in August, played his first Magic at Cardiff in 2011. 

He recalled: “I remember it well. I’d just come back to Leeds [Rhinos] after a season-loan in London [with Harlequins]. 
“I’d had a tough pre-season, managed to cement that wing spot, and that was when Magic was the opening round of the Super League campaign. 

“We played Bradford in the derby - just like they are at Everton this year – and I remember as a kid I had [Great Britain stars] Gareth Raynor and Chev Walker opposite me.  

“But it went well; I got a hat-trick - and a penalty try to win the game [32-28].” 

Jones-Bishop, who won two Grand Finals with hometown Leeds, visited Everton’s world-class Hill Dickinson Stadium last month to get a feel of what his York side will encounter when they make their Magic debut against Huddersfield Giants on Saturday. 

The Jamaica international added: “The venues have all been great where I’ve played Magic over the years and I think this one at Everton will be up there as well. 

“Liverpool is great for access for everyone and then what it provides as a city afterwards. It’s got everything set up, ticket sales have been brilliant - this will be the biggest Magic yet - and as a player you’re always excited to be part of these things. 

“I always enjoyed Newcastle St James’ Park. I played there as a player and have been there as a fan as well. The access to the city centre was really good.  

“Liverpool was good when it was at Anfield. Their facilities were great. But it’s a contrast: it’s always different if you’re the first team on, what time of day it is, when you get access to the changing rooms and everything. I enjoy it.” 

But Jones-Bishop is facing a race against time to be fit for the latest version of the event at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium given he is recovering from a broken foot .

“I’m due to see the surgeon to get the all-clear the day before we play so you never know!” he said, as Knights bid for their fifth Super League win having beaten Castleford Tigers last week. 

“But I doubt I’ll make it in time. It’ll be good for York to play here, though, in its first Magic Weekend. 

“This is what comes with being in Super League for our first year. 

“It’s pretty special. We get to open Magic on Saturday as well and it gives our players the experience and the club as well: it’s a good way for the club to start kicking on.” 

Betfred Super League's Magic WKND is taking place this Saturday and Sunday (4 & 5 July) at the Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool!

Be a part of it and purchase your tickets online now!

By Dave Craven