Celtic crowds on the up

Celtic League organisers have reported increased attendance figures as this season’s competition reaches its conclusion.

After 20 rounds of league action this term, the attendance total stands at more than 424,000, a 35,000 rise on last season’s corresponding period.

Gates are up by 8% for games in Ireland, while Welsh figures show an almost 18% increase. The best-supported Celtic League side continues to be Ulster, who average home crowds of 6,500.

Neath-Swansea Ospreys, with Welsh Grand Slam star Gavin Henson in top form, secured the league title with victory over Edinburgh last weekend.