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VIDEO: WIN Stadium's Western Grandstand, from concept to creation

The atmosphere was one of excitement and anticipation as the growing crowd prepared to welcome the Dragons back to the stadium for the first time this season.

The match marked the official opening of the $31 million, 5800-seat western grandstand.

Dragons fan Maurie Sewell flew in from the Gold Coast just for the game.

‘‘I’ve been here before and the difference, I just can’t believe it,’’ he said.

‘‘Modern facilities, great lighting and it’s easy to watch the game.’’

Chris Eagleton from Barrack Heights said it was the best WIN Stadium had ever looked. ‘‘If this stand fills up it will be a great atmosphere,’’ he said.

The road to the impressive grandstand’s opening, however, was a bumpy one.

Strong winds badly damaged the structure last September, forcing the roof to be removed and rebuilt.

But fans last night appeared willing to put the past behind them as they took their seats.

Minister for the Illawarra Greg Pearce and Sports Minister Graham Annesley were on hand for a brief ceremony to mark the occasion.

‘‘This has the potential to bring economic development, to bring tourism through sporting events but also, in conjunction with the Entertainment Centre next door, these facilities are truly world-class function facilities,’’ Mr Pearce said.

Mr Annesley said the new grandstand would be great for fans and players in the Illawarra.

‘‘It’s going to be a wonderful addition to the Illawarra economy,’’ he said.

The Dragons will play six games at WIN Stadium this season.

Roof sheeting at the stadium’s southern stand will also be replaced in the off-season.