ERC chief backs Lansdowne Road for 2011 Heineken Cup final

LANSDOWNE ROAD could host the 2011 Heineken Cup final in the same year the FAI hopes to bring the UEFA Cup showpiece to the venue.

ERC Chief Executive Derek McGrath stated in Paris yesterday that a redeveloped Lansdowne Road — which is scheduled to open its doors in April 2010 — would be a fabulous venue to host the most famous club competition in world rugby.

“Ireland has done more than many to have a Heineken Cup final,” said McGrath. “We were there in 2003 and wouldn’t it be great to bring it back to the new Lansdowne Road and have a very special day.”