Named NSW Rugby League’s best player in 1983, Mr Eden’s wish to see the game he loves come to town was finally realised about 2pm yesterday.

One of his former clubs, Manly Warringah, agreed to play Canberra in a match for competition points at Lavington.

RELATED CONTENT

As good as it gets: NRL coming to Albury

Sea Eagles flying south

Editorial: Dubbo's loss is Albury's gain

Mr Eden sniffed an opportunity to snare the only match left on the NRL fixture without a venue and went for the kill.

But he wasn’t the lone ranger in pulling off the heist, with Albury mayor Kevin Mack and council staff playing integral roles.

“After 48 hours I thought the deal was done,” Mr Eden said.

“But for seven days we’ve had no sleep and hard yards.

“I know it will be worth it because it is a big deal for the city and the region.

“We’ve got new teams in Corowa and Wodonga and this will be great for rugby league.”

Ever since Mr Eden moved to Albury he has been hoping his contacts in influential places within the code would deliver a major opportunity for Albury.

But this one wasn’t on the radar until Dubbo’s plan to host the match fell apart.

Cr Mack praised Mr Eden’s role in the coup.

“Mike has played an integral part, as have the Albury Thunder,” he said.

“He has put in a lot of hard work and effort, as have the council and its staff.

“We’ve finally reaped a benefit for this community after a couple of years of trying.”

Cr Mack said the economic impact from this game could be huge for Albury.

“You’ve got to spend money to make money,” he said.

“But we are not paying Manly to bring the game here.

“We are paying to stage the event, but the direct benefit to the economy is significant.”