Ticket sales for Nottingham Rugby's top-of-the-table showdown with Newcastle at Meadow Lane on Friday night (March 22) are still going at a smashing rate.

PACK 'EM IN: Nottingham Rugby's pre-sale record has been broken ahead of Newcastle's visit. PIC: Alison Bowden.

By Mondayafternoon, the highly-anticipated clash had already broken the club's pre-sale record with 1,500 tickets snapped up.

The latest report from the ticketing office is that the number has jumped to  1,700.

Nottingham Rugby chief executive Simon Beatham is excited by the swell of support ahead of the Green and Whites' biggest game of the season to date.

"The golden number is to pack 2,500 fans in to the ground and we are right on target to achieve that this week," Beatham said.

"The scene is set for huge first-versus-second clash and everyone that makes it to Meadow Lane will be in for a great spectacle.

"This is big game in the context of our season, as we measure ourselves against the benchmark side and continue to chase a play-off berth."

Nottingham captain and former Falcons flanker Brent Wilson said the buzz of anticipation from the fans has reached the players.

"We have fantastic fans and it's going to be great to see them out in strength on Friday night," Wilson said.

"I know just how committed Newcastle fans are, having enjoyed their
support for so many years, so it will be a great atmosphere at Meadow ane."

You can buy your match ticket by going to  Nottingham Rugby Direct or by calling Nottingham Rugby HQ on 0115 907 0070.

Note: Tickets in the Haydn Green Stand are pre-sale only and will close at 12noon on Thursday, March 21.

Tickets for the Derek Pavis Stand will still be on sale at the ground.