The Autumn Internationals Competition

The Autumn Internationals Competition - Opportunity to Win a Pair of Tickets to see Scotland versus Australia 

With the Autumn Internationals Test Series well underway, Rugby Plus are delight to announce that we have a pair of tickets to see Scotland lock horns with the formidable force of Australia on the 23^rd of November. The Wallabies will undoubtedly be out to seek revenge for their previous two defeats to Scotland and likewise, the latter will be battling to boast a third successive victory.

With a fierce rugby history between the two sides, spanning back to 1927, The Autumn Internationals will provide a fantastic opportunity for Australia to visit what will be a rapturous Murrayfield. With Scotland narrowly edging past the Wallabies on their last two encounters, Australia will be eager to vent their frustration and secure a much needed win. Will Scotland be able to prevent them? Rugby Plus will offer the fantastic opportunity for you to win two tickets to view such a spectacle, where brute force, electric energy and fierce encounters will be commonplace. Scotland will be looking to make an impact following their recent Autumn Internationals test loss to South Africa, whilst Australia will be looking to further capitalise upon their victory over Ireland. As a result, it’s inevitable that the two sides’ ensuing clash will be a formidable one, a battle that will truly astound. Give yourself the opportunity to witness some of the world’s rugby elite do battle and enter our competition!

Visit our Facebook and Twitter pages for more information on competition details and let the games commence!

Rugby Plus also offers a fantastic array of rugby clothing to help you show your support to Scotland during this season’s Autumn Internationals. Browse our fantastic range of Scotland rugby jerseys and help cheer Scotland on to a win! If all this rugby action is getting you in the mood to hit the pitch, discover a host of rugby equipment at Rugby Plus and equip yourself with all you’ll need. 

International Rugby's Core Values

International Rugby Values As Reviewed By Rugby Plus

A sport steeped in tradition and rich heritage, Rugby has become renowned for a number of core values which have cemented its reputation as a widely revered and respected game. Indeed, with a high number of young people beginning to exhibit an interest in this exciting and vibrant sport, we at Rugby Plus are interested to know what integral traits of the game have catapulted it to its global presence.

Certainly, a number of stand-out features can be instantly highlighted. Arguably however, setting the foundation for all that rugby is built upon, is that of sportsmanship. The rugby world is built upon camaraderie amongst teammates and opposition alike and as such, we can clearly observe teams respecting one another both on and off the pitch. It is ensured that the wellbeing and development of players is adhered to throughout all rugby activity. Similarly, strong discipline remains one of the key cornerstones of rugby; whereby players, fans and coaches alike behave in a manner that pays dividends to the nature and laws of the game - consequently facilitating in a thrilling spectacle that is enjoyed by all.

Additionally, mutual respect for everyone involved remains another key basis of the sport’s success. The rugby world has fast become renowned for holding an unparalleled level of respect for all that take part and it’s this approach that helps set rugby aside from many other sports. Likewise, teamwork is vital to any rugby team’s success. Undoubtedly, all players involved take pride in looking after their teammates and taking care of one another.

Whether you’re an avid fan, a seasoned player or are eager to become involved in one the world’s most exciting, respected and unified sports, Rugby Plus can provide you with all the kit you’ll need. Offering a range of rugby kit, from replica rugby club jerseys to rugby boots, an abundance of goods are available for delivery. Don’t hesitate to contact us today on 01224 647347 to find out more on our fantastic rugby clothing and various product ranges.

The Autumn Internationals

 

Always an eagerly anticipated event, the Autumn Internationals offer an exclusive opportunity for the home nations, as well as France and Italy, to take on the South’s rugby elite. The likes of New Zealand, South Africa and Australia make their annual visits to the Northern hemisphere in what is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the rugby calendar. A fiercely contested encounter, the Autumn Internationals offer rugby fanatics the chance to see their idols from far away and those closer to home lock horns in battle. 

Come Saturday the 9^th of November, Scotland will host Japan – home to the 2019 Rugby World Cup – in a cap test match. Having recently emerged from a clean sweep in this year’s HSBC Asian FiveNations Championship, the ‘Cherry Blossoms’ will be eager to continue their impressive record going into the match. Scotland’s second encounter, the following Saturday the 17^th, will see the sheer might of South Africa grace Murrayfield in what’s sure to be a momentous clash. With the Springboks having been narrowly beaten to the Rugby Championship by New Zealand of late, they’ll be looking to vent their frustration…

Finally, the series will draw to a close come the 23^rd of November as Australia pay a visit to the capital. Certainly, the Wallabies will be seeking revenge having being beaten by the Scots on their previous two encounters. Following a courageous victory in Australia the last time the two sides met, Scotland will be equally determined to stand their ground and retain the much revered Hopetoun Cup.

Rugby Plus will be able to serve your every need by providing a wealth of rugby clothes and replica rugby shirts. If you want to show your support during this season’s Autumn Internationals don’t hesitate to browse our fantastic range of Scottish rugby jerseys and a whole host of your other favourite teams’ kit.

The Heineken Cup

The most prestigious club trophy in rugby union, the much anticipated Heineken Cup kicks-off come October the 11^th. Playing host to Europe’s elite rugby teams, the tournament will span to the final on May 24^th, where Wales’ Millennium Stadium will provide an electric reception for players and fans alike.

Indeed, with rugby powerhouses going head to head on a weekly basis, the Heineken Cup truly offers a sporting spectacle like no other. Toulon - the reigning champions - will begin their title defence at home to Scotland’s very own Glasgow Warriors in a clash that will certainly not be for the faint hearted. Elsewhere, the competition gets underway with Connacht welcoming Saracens whilst Ulster entertain Leicester Tigers.

Round two oversees Harlequins travel to France and the intimidating Stade Marcel Michelin to take on fierce opponents Clermont in what’s bound to be a tough encounter. Perhaps the most eagerly awaited game of the pool stages however features in round four, where Leinster will do battle with Northampton in a repeat of 2011’s mouth-watering final. The match, scheduled for Saturday the 14^th of December, has been moved by Leinster to the awe-inspiring Aviva Stadium where crowds packed to the rafters will guarantee a fantastic atmosphere.  

Regardless of who you’ll be supporting this season, Rugby Plus offers an incredible selection of replica rugby club jerseys and kit both at our online store and Aberdeen-based rugby shop to help you cheer on your club. With competitive prices and an abundance of rugby clothing available for delivery, don’t hesitate to contact us on 01224 647347 for more information on our fantastic product ranges. 

Scotland's Rugby Map

 

A nation soaked in rich rugby heritage and tales of fierce battles, Scotland’s rugby map offers a fantastic range of events the year round. From the grittiness of the borders to Murrayfield’s state-of-the-art training facilities, a love of rugby is truly shared the country over and this is reflected in an exciting schedule of fixtures at all levels of the game.  

Indeed, the calendar kicks off with one of the world’s most prestigious tournaments; the RBS Six Nations. Held in February and March, the likes of Scotland, England, Wales, Ireland, France and Italy battle it out for this coveted trophy whilst attempting to avoid the much dreaded wooden spoon. Showcasing some of the worlds’ elite talent and drawing crowds in their thousands, this competition is not one to be missed.

April plays host to the Melrose 7s, where teams from around the world, as well as those closer to home, flock to the Scottish borders to lock horns. Renowned for its wild after parties, general merriment and fast-paced rugby action, this tournament is suitable for friends and family alike.

Additionally, there’s the Autumn International Test Series, where rapturous crowds are given the chance to cheer Scotland on against their Southern hemisphere counterparts. Considered a warm-up for the Six Nations; the likes of New Zealand, Australia and South Africa will certainly put Scotland through their paces. At club level, the Heineken Cup runs from November to January and provides an excellent opportunity to watch Glasgow Warriors and Edinburgh Gunners compete against some of the best Europe has to offer.

Whether you’re an avid rugby fanatic or a newcomer to the sport, Scottish rugby certainly caters to all tastes, boasting a mouth-watering display for all to enjoy. Rugby Plus offers a of rugby kit, from the new Scotland Rugby Shirt to club jerseys to help show your support for this coming season.

 

Preseason Rugby Training

Strength, power and endurance are but just a range of the attributes that any rugby player needs for the new season. In order to fine tune and develop such elements, we at Rugby Plus believe a high quality, structured preseason training plan is paramount to ensure an explosive on-pitch experience.

When sifting through the never-ending debate of cardiovascular exercises, metabolic workouts and other complicated jargon being constantly discussed, there’s one term which should be prized over all others; functionality. Indeed, matching the biomechanics and body position of a movement in the gym to a movement on the pitch can rapidly improve a player’s dynamism to operate effectively in that specified position. Key traditional lifts such as the deadlift are considered staples of such programmes, proving especially effective for the likes of front row forwards where upward power is simply a necessity at the breakdown. Additionally, the likes of squats and bench presses have more than proved their credibility in decades past for building battle-worthy physiques. Cardio, it should go without saying, is also a crucial facet to enhancing general fitness and should be combined regularly with circuit-style methods to improve endurance and explosive ability.

On top of regular gym training, it’s paramount for squads to develop a sense of camaraderie both and off the pitch. As you’ll be spending a considerable amount of time with teammates over the course of the season - experiencing the highs of victory and the lows of defeat - preseason can act as vital period in which such bonds may be cemented. Therefore, Rugby Plus recommends that as much time is spent socialising as in the gym, if not for an excuse to hit the nearest bar…

From rugby training balls to rugby holdalls, Rugby Plus can provide all the necessary equipment at competitive prices to kick-start your club’s much anticipated, and in some cases daunting, preseason rugby training. 

The Rugby Initiation – Friend or Foe?

 

Scores of alcohol, boyish pranks, humiliating rituals and devilish games are just snippets of the general debauchery which rugby initiation ceremonies have become notorious for in recent times. Over the coming weeks, as blissfully unaware students-to-be take the plunge into the next stage of their young lives; many will endure a range of gruelling tasks and other missions to guarantee that much desired sport’s position.

Considering the hyper masculinity associated with rugby in particular, it’s of no surprise that horror stories constantly filter through the grapevine of naïve freshmen feebly attempting to prove their worth. From being bound to trees naked to consuming every shot known to man, the variety and harshness of tasks imposed on willing candidates by power-drunk seniors truly astounds. Constantly trying to outdo one another, these fresh-faced contenders are relentlessly put through their paces in a bid to cement their peers’ respect.

Even the word ‘initiation’ brings with it a wall of secrecy so strong, that, more often than not, even the members of the club have no knowledge concerning details of the event. Of course, it is these mysteries that act as such an enticing factor, creating a shroud of excitement around a team and support network that many can only strive to be a part of.

However, although these decadent traditions have come under much scrutiny – particularly for their glorification of a binge drinking culture – they do serve to play an important role. Feelings of empathy shared amongst peers who have suffered equally helps facilitate a sense of camaraderie which is vital to immersing oneself into university life. Such friendships soon play an effective role in life both on and off the pitch, creating a close-knit community which provides a valuable sense of belonging at a rather daunting transitional point in life.

Regardless, rugby clubs have become so integrated into modern university culture that to take away their initiation ceremonies would be to remove the very foundations of their culture. Of course, to secure your position in such a tight-knit community it’s essential to behave as well as look the part. Rugby Plus can provide you with everything from flamboyant under armour to battle-worthy boots, as well as a range of other rugby gear to kit out that eagerly awaiting sports bag. With that being said, the very best of luck to all rugby freshers for this coming year…

Leicester Tigers Rugby Competition

Leicester Tigers Rugby Competition 

As the dust settles following the Lion’s majestic triumphs this summer, it’s now time for the nations’ pride-soaked rugby following to return their focus to the nitty-gritty of national leagues. Indeed, with the Aviva Premiership having recently kicked off, the nations’ eyes have fast shifted to the country’s elite battling it out on a weekly basis.  

Much to anyone who isn’t their fan’s annoyance, it’s somewhat difficult to picture anyone other than the Leicester Tigers finishing top – subsequently cutting through that increasingly familiar path to the playoffs. Considerable competition will undoubtedly come from Northampton who - with the likes of North and Corbisiero at their disposal - will certainly pack a punch upfront. However, many have criticised Saints for a recurring fragility in the furlong, an aspect which Tigers certainly don’t possess. Other challenges will come from the likes of Saracens whose consistent determination has served them well in recent years, whilst Harlequins possess the ambition but lack the necessary quality to make a serious contention.

Regardless, it’s Leicester’s intuitive attack, unbreakable defence and steely fortitude which have acted as cornerstones for the team’s domination in recent years – aspects which many contenders can only strive to match.

Alas, in order to celebrate the Aviva Premiership and a year of rugby triumph, Rugby Plus is delighted to announce the opportunity for one lucky fan to win a signed Leicester Tigers home jersey. The competition will run from the 17^th to the 30^th of September with the winner being chosen at random. Follow Rugby Plus on Twitter and Facebook for more information and let the games commence!

Launch of New Scotland Rugby Shirt

Rugby Plus is thrilled to be stocking the new Scotland rugby shirt. Launched on Thursday 1st August, it was described as a 'classic reborn' by kit suppliers Macron at the launch event in Archerfield Golf Club in East Lothian.

Inspired by designs submitted by fans back in February, the final product draws on a range of influences and defines multiple generations of Scotland supporters. Stuart Gray, from Cove in the Borders, was selected as the ultimate winner, and Macron based the new kit around elements of his designs. He has had the chance to travel to Bologna to see Macron produce the new kit – have a look at his travel video here. A delighted Stuart said: 'The Scotland shirt is a significant piece of clothing for many people, so I’m blown away and incredibly proud to have had an influence in the design of this new piece of kit.’

The Scotland team will showcase the new navy blue white collared shirt for the first time in their game against Japan at Murrayfield on Saturday 9^th November. Scotland and British & Irish Lions full-back, Stuart Hogg, said: 'I’m really looking forward to playing in the new shirt and I really like the traditional design that Macron and Stuart [Gray] have gone for. I remember when I was growing up seeing footage of Scotland’s greats playing in a navy shirt with white collar, so it’s going to be quite a thrill pulling this jersey on for the first time.’

To be one of the first to get your hands on this iconic shirt, place your orders on our website now – at the moment we are stocking five variations of the new kit, including a ladies jersey and poloshirt. We are also stocking the Macron Murrayfield Collection Polo, from Macron’s value for money line. 

Our competitive pricing, excellent customer service, and passion for the sport makes Rugby Plus the number one choice for many rugby fans.

Sizzling Summer Offers with Rugby Plus

Well, it’s been a long hot summer here in Aberdeen, and at Rugby Plus we sure ain't complaining! To celebrate we are running an exclusive Summer Sizzler offer in our Aberdeen shop: buy 2 tee-shirts and get another one free (cheapest item free).  This deal wraps up this Saturday 3^rd August, so come on down to our shop while stocks last.

The shop is located in Aberdeen city centre, and can be easily reached by car and public transport. Our address is 314 George Street - you can find us on Google maps here, and full address and contact details are also on our website. Our opening hours are 9am to 5.30pm from Monday to Saturday.

Our website showcases just some of the tee-shirts we stock in our shop, and includes branded shirts from the likes of Canterbury of New Zealand, Under Armour, Brand Co, Kooga and Nike, as well as British & Irish Lions, RBS 6 Nations, Glasgow Warriors products. So stay cool in style this summer with the help of Rugby Plus!

Unfortunately, this offer is applicable only to tee-shirts purchased in our shop, but stay posted for some great online offers coming your way over the upcoming months…the Rugby Plus team would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your loyal custom and chatter across our social media channels. If you don’t already, please like us on Facebook for regular competitions, giveaways and top class rugby banter! You can also follow us on Twitter to keep up to date on all things rugby.

IRB Rugby World Cup 2015

The count down to the IRB Rugby World Cup 2015 has begun! With 785 days and counting to go until kick off preparations in England are well and truly under way.  Expectations are high after the London 2012 Summer Olympics, which proved to be a great success not only for Britain, but for British sport. What better way to top it off with a Rugby World Cup under our belts. 

The names have been pulled out of the hat and the group stages look to be quite interesting. England and Wales are set to meet each other in the early stages of the World Cup, as they are both drawn in the same group alongside Australia.  Scotland, in Pool B, will be expected to make it through to the later stages of the World Cup with the only real threat being South Africa. However, a hiccup earlier on in the year in which Samoa beat Scotland 27-17 could create a dent in the team’s confidence. 

You will all be chuffed to know the The Rugby World Cup 2015 Polo has hit the Rugby Plus store and can be purchased now. This is bound to be a best-seller, so buy now to avoid disappointment!

Who will win the coveted 2015 trophy?

Tickets are set to go on sale soon, and Rugby Plus will dutifully keep you all in the loop here. In the meantime, to receive all the latest news, information and updates on how to get hold of a ticket click here. Locations up and down the country, including Manchester, Exeter, Milton Keynes, Newcastle, Leeds and many more are all set to host RWC fixtures.

It is out with the old and in with the new for Scotland as they say goodbye to Canterbury and hello to Macron with the introduction to a new kit: could this be the change Scottish rugby is waiting for? The new strip is still to be revealed and is set to go on sale on Friday 2^nd of August on the Rugby Plus website and in our Aberdeen-based rugby shop. Until then, why not browse our great selection of other Scotland kit items. To secure your new Scotland jerseys feel free to call us on 01224 647347 to reserve a shirt. 

Another Update from Callum Murray: Introducing Rugby to Kids in Zambia this Summer

Our lad Callum Murray, a P.E. student based in Stirling, has now returned from his stint in Zambia this summer, where he was taking part in an IDEALS initiative. Callum had the experience of a lifetime, introducing touch rugby to kids out there. The children took to rugby like a duck to water, and he describes the experience as immensely rewarding, commenting on the passion and enthusiasm they exhibited for the sport.

It wasn't all hard work for Callum, who managed to fit in some sight-seeing around his rugby coaching. The picture below shows him flying the flag for Scotland and posing in his rather dashing kilt at the Victoria Falls. Love it!

Callum Murray flies the flag for Scotland at the Victoria Falls

We'll get a full report from Callum soon about his experiences, so watch this space...

In the meantime, I regret to announce that we are currently experiencing technical difficulties with the Rugby Plus site. Never fear though, our happy customer service team in Aberdeen will be delighted to help with any queries or orders you may have in the meantime. So please contact us on +44 1224 647347 or email us at aberdeen@rugbyplus.com to place your orders!

Live with The Lions: Rugby Plus Man reports from Australia

Throughout the Lions Tour, the Rugby Plus team in Aberdeen have been chuckling over regular updates from our resident RUGBY PLUS MAN IN AUSTRALIA! As the spectacular tour ends in glory after months of anticipation, we wanted to share this final report with you....enjoy!

Sid Knee started to hot up about Wed when the brother Prides started padding into town, in various degrees of apprehension but still in good spirits and full of the same.

Our Pride’s fun began with Baldy and Rosie Lion jetting in from the Gold Coast where our team had been prepping for the last big push.

Team selection was the discussion point of all fans, especially on BOD – how dare Gatland drop the God Bod out of the team, and not even a throne for him on the bench – but we all kind of knew that ol Brian wouldn’t really be too fussed – he was happy being a part of things and that is the measure of the man.

Friday was dress up day and of to the ARU lunch in the Westin with Baldy Lion. He’d brought nae dress gear, so two Manly Daily rolled up in a pair of my size 12s and he was off like the lean mean fun machine he is avec kilt and a smile. First boys we bumped into were Sandy and Norrie whom we met up with in SA 4 years ago – Glasgow Polis guys with a mad sense of loving all rugby experiences anywhere on the Globe – brilliant to catch up and if you have time read their blog – it is hilarious.

At the lunch, Pulver the ARU chief was bigging up everything Wobbily, but Sur Graham Henry and Gav Hastings certainly made it known that the tradition and ethos of the Lions was something very dear to the heart and a must to nurture and maintain – and a big big hear hear to that!

So that was the culture, then we had a trip to the Marble bar and on down to the Sid Knee RFC which was a sea of red and nonstop songs – whit a night, and even some of the apprehension started to drain away.

Sat morning broke, weather wunnerful and down to Wharf bar to chew the fat with the other brothers. Our bowling chums joined us and then over on ferry then train to an Oirish bar near Hyde Park for pre game sustenance prior to train ride out to game. The Orish contingent were still no happy about BOD and if you weren’t Welsh there was also a reservation about the 10 Welsh – but we had wot we had and at least big Ritchie was bound to get on for a run.

A sea of 83000 fans, met us when we got out the train and we found a quiet spot to sing some more!

We were in seats 15 from the front behind the Wobbilyies end and there was a fair number of us, but the Wobbilies with their “they’re only wearing yellow cos its free” brigade were there in force, but nae very noisycompared to our Prides!!

Kick off and 7 up!!, couldnae believe it. But sitting there it didn’t give a sense that we were dominant in that first half. The pack went exceptionally well with that Corbisero palying oot his skin with Hibbert. Old George Smith was knocked cold and should really have been allowed to come back on – good Manly loon thon.

And when young O’Connor squared the try count, my inflatable settee started to give me much needed comfort.

Half time and a re-group; can we do it – will the Wobbilyies claw it back as they did in Melbourne??? It was enough for John to start growing hair again!

So bang – off we went on and into that never to be forgotten roller coaster of a second half.

Everything seemed to click – the forward dominance set up the midfield backs running and Cow- eating Roberts pulled the defenders in to open these much needed gaps and – what about 50cents eh! Not only can he kick goals from onywhere, but he can play a bit. We hammered them into the ground!

Cheerio to the devastated free gold and greens around us at about 10mins to go – poor fowk, we were making a hell of a racket – so don’t really blame them. The night was ours!!!

The Lions revelling in the sweet taste of victory

What a fantastic win. The whole team came over at the end of the game to our end – I looked up and the whole end was a sea of bouncing red, singing, singing and singing. What an absolutely brilliant moment. Big Ritchie jumping up and doon wi his mates and they were just so appreciative of us. That was a very very special moment.

So we have the Tom Richards trophy, that great man who played for both sides and fell in the great war.

A fitting end to a fabulous 6 weeks of liver destroying mayhem.

Now I need to get a job in New Zealand in about 4 years time.

Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!

Update from Callum Murray: Introducing Rugby to Kids in Zambia this Summer

The Rugby Plus team was thrilled to receive our first update from Callum Murray on his ongoing experiences in Zambia, where he is participating in an IDEALS (International Development Through Excellence and Leadership in Sport) initiative, introducing touch rugby to children out there. Callum, a physical education student based in Stirling and Scottish rugby enthusiast, first came across Rugby Plus and our head honcho David Brown when he was randomly selected as the winner of our Facebook competition, winning two tickets to the 2013 Emirates Airlines Glasgow 7s tournament at Scotstoun. Callum then went on to perform brilliantly in the Edinburgh half marathon, sporting a Rugby Plus t-shirt donated by David.

Callum has been working in the community of Kalingalinga, Lusaka, where they use a dust field for all games and footballs made out of shopping bags tied together. Callum has been blown away by the appreciation he’s witnessed by kids and adults alike out there for sport – if only he could bring the attitudes back to Scotland!

Hearing about Callum introducing rugby to the local kids is an inspiring tale: he describes the moment when he brought along a couple of rugby balls to the local kids who can't afford schooling as something he will never forget. He kicked a ball down the field for the kids to chase for 3 hours last week, as they love chasing the unpredictable bounce! Callum has continued doing this for an hour each day since, and his following has expanded to include quite a large group of youngsters. He has done a few passing practices with them which they loved, and has now started introducing some rugby rules to them.

Callum is repping for Rugby Plus in Zambia, kitted out in our gear. We’re hoping for some photos soon, so watch this space!

Rugby Plus Kick Off at Royal Highland Show

Following weeks of blood, sweat and tears, the Rugby Plus stand is finally up and running at the Royal Highland Show! We are based just next to the West Gate until Sunday, so please come down and say hello! Fingers crossed the rain stays off til Sunday…

We will be selling an extensive range of our rugby kit and equipment, and there are great bargains to be had. The early bird gets the worm – we’re selling kit from £5.00 – yes, honestly £5.00 - when it’s gone it’s gone! We will also be stocking some very cool t-shirts supplied by Dump Tackle if you’re looking for something a bit different. Each day has a different theme, so come along to get involved and meet the RugbyPlus team! If you can't make it to the show, don't despair - all our stock is still available on our website and in our Aberdeen store.

We know you all love a freebie, so we’ll also be giving away several rugby jerseys signed by big players at the show through a free raffle. Simply ask at our stand for more details. We’ll also be giving away SCRUM Magazines on Friday, so get in there quick to nab your free copy!

Be sure to check out our Rugby Plus Facebook page and Twitter account for regular updates from the show, which will also be posted in the Twitter feed on our website homepage. And don’t forget our Facebook Canterbury Giveaway ends TOMORROW. All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning a great prize is like us here. Easy peasy!

Come and say hello to our friendly team!

If you’ve not yet got your tickets for the show, it’s not too late! You can purchase them here or through the homepage link at the bottom of the Rugby Plus website. If you want to get in touch with us during the event, Rugby Plus Head Honcho Dave Brown will be dipping into his emails occasionally and can be contacted on home@rugbyplus.com. Or feel free to give us a call on 01224 647347.

We look forward to seeing you over the next few days!

Rugby Plus at the Royal Highland Show

We are looking forward to having a Rugby Plus stand at this year’s Royal Highland Show 20-23rd June. The annual show is Scotland's farming and countryside showcase. Each year more than 1,000 exhibitors, 4,500 livestock, and close to 185,000 visitors descend on the Royal Highland Centre in Ingliston so it is set to be another fantastic event for the Rugby Plus team. 

This year we will have a theme each day so come along daily for something different and get the chance to meet the team. We will be on hand to chat about our full range of rugby products and to enjoy a bit of banter as well. 

Thursday - Opening

Friday – Scrum Magazine

Saturday – Samurai

Sunday – Canterbury

We will have a number of signed rugby jerseys at the show which will be involved in a free raffle. Simply ask at our stand for more details and be sure to check out our Rugby Plus facebook page and twitter account for more information on the jerseys and regular updates from the show. 

There is also currently a Canterbury Giveaway competition on our facebook page. All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning a great prize is like us here.

If you wish to contact us before the event then please do so on 01224 647347 or home@rugbyplus.com

Queensland Reds and Lions Tour So Far

Then Lions will face Queensland Reds at the Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane on Saturday 8th June hoping to make it 3 wins from 3 after a convincing eight try, 29-8 win over the Barbarians in their opening match and another well fought 69-17 win over Western Force.

They were however dealt a massive injury blow as prop Cian Healy was forced to leave the tour with an ankle injury picked up in the win over Western Force. London Irish Prop Alex Corbisiero has been called up as cover for Cian. There was also other injury news today as Jonny Wilkinson has had surgery on a groin injury effectively ending any chance of a late call up to the squad.

Queensland Reds coach Ewen McKenzie is set to name his strongest possible side against the Lions who will be prepared for a more difficult match than the previous 2 wins. The Reds were the last team to beat the Lions with a famous 15-11 win in 1971.

There will however be noticeable absentees as 7 of the Reds have been called up to the Wallabies squad. Most of the pre match discussion has been on how the talented Quade Cooper performs at fly-half after his clash with Aussie coach Robbie Deans has left him cast out of the Australian set up. So keep an eye on Quade. Here are the squads for tomorrow’s fixture.

Reds: 15 Ben Lucas, 14 Rod Davies, 13 Ben Tapuai, 12 Anthony Faingaa, 11 Luke Morahan, 10 Quade Cooper, 9 Nick Frisby, 1 Ben Daley, 2 James Hanson, 3 Greg Holmes, 4 Adam Wallace-Harrison, 5 Ed O'Donoghue, 6 Eddie Quirk, 7 Beau Robinson, 8 Jake Schatz. Replacements: 16 Albert Anae, 17 Sam Denny, 18 Jono Owen, 19 Radike Samo, 20 Jarrad Butler, 21 Jono Lance, 22 Mike Harris, 23 Dom Shipperley

British and Irish Lions: 15 Stuart Hogg, 14 Alex Cuthbert, 13 Manu Tuilagi, 12 Jonathan Davies, 11 Tommy Bowe, 10 Owen Farrell, 9 Ben Youngs, 1 Mako Vunipola, 2 Tom Youngs, 3 Matt Stevens, 4 Richie Gray, 5 Geoff Parling, 6 Dan Lydiate, 7 Sam Warburton (c), 8 Toby Faletau. Replacements: 16 Richard Hibbard, 17 Dan Cole, 18 Adam Jones, 19 Paul O'Connell, 20 Justin Tipuric, 21 Conor Murray, 22 Jonathan Sexton, 23 George North

WIN 1 of 5 iPad minis with the Canterbury ‘How Do You Wear Yours’ footwear campaign

Rugby Plus has long been a proud supplier of leading sportswear brand Canterbury of New Zealand. We therefore thought it apt to promote the launch of an exciting Canterbury social media campaign, which showcases their new Spring/Summer collection of casual footwear.

The campaign, named ‘How Do You Wear Yours’ asks people to share images of their Canterbury casual footwear and upload them via Twitter or Instagram for the chance of winning one of five iPad Minis. Focussed around the #HowDoYouWearYours hashtag, the campaign will run until 31st July, with a series of captivating images showcasing the footwear range.

The casual footwear collection is inspired by the rich New Zealand and rugby heritage of which Canterbury is renowned. For the Spring Summer season, the styles are lightweight and relaxed to enhance comfort during the warmer months. The inner taping, colourful linings and variety of laces highlight the attention to detail evident across all designs. The stand-out styles include the Taruranga and Hamilton, both heavily influenced by the unique Uglies concept developed exclusively by Canterbury.

To share your picture and be in with a chance of winning your very own iPad mini, Tweet @canterburyNZ or Instagram @canterburynz using the hash tag #HowDoYouWearYours. Rugby Plus stocks an excellent selection of on and off-pitch Canterbury footwear on our site an in our Aberdeen store. Our extensive range of other Canterbury stock ranges from sporting equipment to kidswear, womenswear, baselayer, jerseys and much more. We have so much to choose from! 

To celebrate our partnership with Canterbury and our stand at the upcoming Royal Highland Show (20th - 23rd June), Rugby Plus is currently running a brilliant Facebook competition, giving away Canterbury kit to a lucky winner every week for the next four weeks. Simply like our Facebook page to be in with a chance of winning!