Rugby: County set for Welsh visit

Dec 5 2012 by Kevin Robertson, Stirling Observer

Stirling County return to British and Irish Cup action on Saturday with the visit of leading Welsh side Bedwas to Bridgehaugh.

County have played two matches in Pool 2, and will be looking for a repeat of their opening victory over Neath.

And although Bedwas have yet to get off the mark in the cross-border competition, they will prove a very stiff test for County, as the Welsh outfit are very much the in-form team in Wales, boasting a succession of excellent results propelling them to the top of the Principality Premiership.

County are looking forward to the return of the British and Irish Cup, which provides a welcome change from the routine of the RBS Premiership where the Bridgehaugh side have found wins hard to come by this season in what is a highly competitive league.

The cross-border competition provides County’s head coach Graeme Young and his players with a chance to play against the best sides from the other home nations, an experience that will prove valuable in the development of the team.

Bedford Blues from the English Championship currently lead Pool 2 and visit Stirling in January.

County face a return trip to Bedwas on December 15.

Stirling County president Kevin Robertson said: “The British and Irish Cup provides a real opportunity for local fans to see top-class rugby against the best sides from Wales and England.

“The competition has already proved to be exciting, and we will be looking to get back to winning ways against Bedwas in what I am sure will be a great advert for the sport.” Saturday’s match between Stirling County against Bedwas kicks-off at Bridgehaugh at 3pm.

There are still a few places available for the pre-match lunch in the marquee before the match. Contact Alastair Cunningham on 07789 22284 or the club office on 01786 478866 to reserve your place.