Mount Isa Rugby Union (MIRU) president Tom Robertson says it’s going to be a real carnival atmosphere “to get everyone back into the swing of things".

“We’ve added an extra team to the sevens competition this year, which people can get in touch with me to join. Squads are limited to 14 people. It should be a good night,” Mr Robertson said.

Five teams; Keas, Euros, Warrigals, Cloncurry, plus a new wild card entry “the rebels” will play against each other in a round robin tournament.

Ten games take place over three hours from 6.30pm, then it’s straight into the finals at 10pm, where 3^rd and 4^th place compete before 1^st and 2^nd place battle it out.

For the uninitiated, sevens is a shortened format of rugby union, with seven players playing seven minute halves instead of 15 players playing 40 minute halves.

Cloncurry player Hamish Chrisp says it’s a fun, fast-paced game and a great spectator sport for anyone.

“Even if you’ve never been to a game before, you’ll have a good time at the sevens. It’s a lot faster, with a lot more running,” he said.

Warrigals co-captain Alex Weller said the team had their first training session last night, coming back to the second half of the season following a 6 week break in December.

“We’re allowed 14 people max, so whoever’s left over will play for Tom’s team, the rebels,” he said.

A Keas spokesperson encouraged fans to come along, saying “it should be exciting as there are a number of players in the MIRU made for 7's.”

Entry is free from 6.30pm when the bar opens, and there’s even a BBQ. 

TIMETABLE:

6.30pm Warrigals vs. Cloncurry

6.50pm Euros vs. Keas

7.10pm Rebels vs. Warrigals

7.30pm Euros vs. Cloncurry

7.50pm Keas vs. Rebels

8.10pm Warrigals vs. Keas

8.30pm Rebels vs. Cloncurry

8.50pm Keas vs Warrigals

9.10pm Euros vs Rebels

9.30pm Cloncurry vs Keas

10.00pm 3^rd and 4^th playoffs 

10.30pm 1^st and 2^nd playoffs