Scotland 7s boosted as they replicate match day

Scotland 7s have continued their preparations for the Emirates Airline Glasgow 7s, in just over a week’s time, by replicating a match day at Murrayfield Stadium. The squad undertook three ties throughout the day and were supported by players from Edinburgh Rugby and Glasgow Warriors.James Eddie, Lee Jones, Finlay Gillies and Scott Wight (all Glasgow Warriors) returned having been involved in the last leg of the HSBC Sevens World Series, in Hong Kong, and Nick De Luca (Edinburgh Rugby) linked up with Scotland 7s for the first time since the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne and IRB Sevens in Hong Kong that same year.The 41 times Scotland cap, De Luca, said: “The games of sevens today are the first I’ve played for eight years.  I’m delighted to have the chance to be involved and be in contention for selection ahead of the Glasgow 7s.It’s a shock to the system playing the short game again, but I’m enjoying the challenge and the chance to get lots of ball in hand.”Replicating match day has been an integral part of Scotland 7s’ preparations this season, prior to all legs of the HSBC Sevens World Series, as it allows the players to have valuable game time against experienced opposition and to re-familiarise themselves with tournament expectations.Each tie is split roughly two-and-a-half hours apart, as it would be on the international circuit so the players can ensure their recovery and nutrition in competition is allowing them to perform at their optimum.Eddie, said: “It’s really good to have the opportunity to replicate tournament day to get the body physically and mentally prepared for the Glasgow 7s.  It’s also really enjoyable having extra game time.I’m working hard towards selection because the opportunity to play at the Glasgow 7s, my home tournament, for the first time would be fantastic.”The Scotland 7s squad for the eighth leg of the HSBC Sevens World Series next Saturday (3 May) and Sunday (4 May) will be announced at the team’s permanent base, Ravenscraig Regional Sports Facility, next Monday (28 April).Scotland 7s play Australia (12.42pm), USA (4.10pm) and Spain (7.21pm) on day one at the Emirates Airline Glasgow 7s.Tickets for the 2014 Emirates Airline Glasgow 7s tournament, the eighth leg of the HSBC Sevens World Series, are available now on general sale, starting from only£20 per person and£10 for under-18s, students and senior citizens.Tickets are on sale for designated stands and for designated days, with weekend passes also available from£35. Family tickets (two adults and two under-18s) can be bought for£45, along with a selection of other offers for groups.  The 2014 event is circus-themed, with all supporters encouraged to come in fancy dress and join in the party spirit!  Visit www.glasgow7s.com to buy tickets.See all the up-to-date news and information on this year’s tournament and follow @Glasgow7s on Twitter.