As Wales took on the ever-impressive Tongan team, fans from both teams joined in unison to create a special atmosphere.

St Helens and the Totally Wicked Stadium was overrun by a sea of red and white on a night which epitomised what rugby league is all about. The north of England is currently home to a variety of different cultures each adding its own element to what is already a wonderful World Cup.

On a brisk Autumn evening, from the Steve Prescott Bridge towards the ground, it was a Tongan takeover; chants being sung, flags in the air and dancing along the streets. The traditional Tongan ta’ovala dress was prominent amongst the crowds alongside the current World Cup jersey.

As the stadium drew nearer the Red Dragon began to make its mark. The Welsh flags became part of the mix as thousands of fans joined together. Pubs were filled as conversation and beers flowed and, for a moment, before the match kicked off, two sets of fans were one.

There was an air of excitement but also nerves, emanating more so from the Welsh fans. Hats and scarves were bought to show support for the tournament and to fend off the cold. Songs and chants could still be heard but in much fainter voices as the crowds dispersed and headed to their turnstiles. Once through the barriers and onto the concourse the atmosphere built again as kick off neared. The smell of pints and pies took over whilst fans scurried to their seats to get settled in.

It was clear that Tonga had been designated the smaller stand but that did not matter. Walking through the tunnel towards the pitch, they could be heard before they were seen. There was a sense of a party atmosphere.

The players entered the pitch to thunderous applause and the national anthems added to the buzz of eagerness to get the match underway. All that was left was the infamous Haka. Silence and anticipation filled the stadium before they began, as it continued the Tongan fans and team formed a call and response rendition of the pre-match tradition.

Throughout the game, vuvuzelas were a continuing theme which contributed to an electric atmosphere. The ferocity and enthralling manner of the game matched the crowd and provided one of the best moments of the World Cup so far.

Once the battle was over, the party atmosphere returned as the players applauded the crowd for their efforts. The Welsh squad were given a standing ovation from their fans after a tough battle against one of the favourites for the competition. The sea of fans then headed for the exits but remained outside the stadium in order to clap the players onto the team buses.

After a bruising encounter, the Welsh squad and Tongan fans came together to sing Tom Jones’ ‘Delilah’. It was a moment that embodied what rugby league and this World Cup are about.

Walking away from the St Helens stadium it was obvious that this was just the start of the celebrations.

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