Soccer: Kingz gamble on taking home match to Hamilton

The Football Kingz will play their National Soccer League match against the Melbourne Knights in Hamilton on November 1.

The Australian NSL gave permission for the match to be played at Waikato Stadium instead of Ericsson Stadium, the normal venue for Kingz' home matches in Auckland.

Kingz chief executive Chris Turner said the club was keen to play their match against the Knights at the new stadium.

"Because interest and support for the team comes from across the country, we have always endeavoured to ensure that regions outside of Auckland get an opportunity to either meet the team or see them play live," Turner said.

Turner said if there was a "justifiable" level of support for the team in the Hamilton match, they would consider committing to the region long-term.

"This match on November 1 will be the tester."

The Kingz have one other uncommitted home match this season on January 23, with Waikato Stadium also in the running for this match.

- NZPA