Scotland next-gen shine

Scottish rugby fans were given an exciting glimpse into the future over the weekend as both Edinburgh Rugby and Glasgow Warriors kicked off their pre-season preparations by providing game-time to several of Scottish Rugby’s pathway graduates and current players. With expansive, high-scoring fixtures testing squad depth, both coaching staff utilised the opportunity to test a new generation of talent against quality opposition ahead of a demanding season.

Newcastle Red Bulls 47—31 Glasgow Warriors

Glasgow Warriors travelled south to take on Newcastle Red Bulls at Kingston Park. Despite falling to a 47-31 defeat in Tyneside, Glasgow produced a spirited performance that showcased the squad’s depth.

An early score from the hosts didn’t deter Glasgow, who responded sharply through a slick backline move finished by Kerr Johnston. While Newcastle’s clinical edge saw them open up a first-half cushion, Glasgow dominated spells of the second half. Academy winger Guy Rogers introduced himself to the travelling Warrior Nation with a brilliant quickfire brace, while Jamie McAughtrie powered over from a maul and Callum Reidy grounded late for a fifth try.

Read the full match report here.

Edinburgh Rugby 26—28 Ulster Rugby

At Hive Stadium, Edinburgh Rugby were narrowly pipped 26-28 by BKT URC rivals Ulster in an eight-try thriller. Tries from Geordie Gwynn, Hector Paterson, Paul Hill, and Conor McAlpine kept Edinburgh in contention throughout, with the coaching staff utilising the full extent of the club’s arsenal to give emerging prospects valuable match time against top-tier opposition.

Reflecting on the match, Edinburgh hooker and Player of the Match, Jerry Blyth-Lafferty highlighted the positive culture within the group:

“We are so lucky at this club to have guys like Sean [Everitt] in the coaches box that trust us and see the hard work the young boys put in every week and reward that by letting us get on the pitch and show what we can do.”

Read the full match report here

Next up for the pro teams

Both Scottish sides have one remaining pre-season fixture before the competitive BKT URC action gets underway.

• Friday 18 September (Final Pre-Season Friendlies):

  • Glasgow Warriors v Bath Rugby (Home – Old Anniesland) – Buy tickets

  • Harlequins v Edinburgh Rugby (Away – The Stoop)

• Saturday 25 September (BKT URC Round 1):

  • Munster v Glasgow Warriors (Away – Thomond Park)

  • Ulster v Edinburgh Rugby (Away – Affidea Stadium)