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.

 

Celebrate St Patrick’s Day with Rugby Plus

This Sunday, millions of people across the globe will celebrate their Irish ancestry. Pubs and city streets will be swathed in shamrocks and leprechauns as multitudes of green-clad merrymakers swill pints of Guinness. These days, you don’t even have to be Irish to join the party – it is a unique annual event in which people from all over the world are brought together to revel in Irish culture.

Second RBS Six Nations Victory for The Blues

Murrayfield was in raptures on Sunday as Scotland retained their Six Nations title hopes, thanks to a narrow 12-8 victory against Ireland.

Perhaps not the most nail-biting Championship clash of all time, Sunday's match marked the first time in twelve years that Scotland has won back-to-back Six Nations matches. Following a slow first half, the Scots managed to wangle 12 unanswered points past the Irish team. As scrum-half Greig Laidlaw led his team to an unlikely victory, Ireland's hopes of winning the Six Nations title faded fast.

Scotland vs. Ireland at Murrayfield

Richie Gray for Scotland

With a big weekend of sport ahead, Scotland's 6 Nations fixture against Ireland at Murrayfield is set to be one of the highlights.

Following an impressive 34-10 victory against Italy on Saturday 9^th February, Scotland is looking ahead to their next challenge this Sunday 24^th February: a home game against old foes Ireland. Murrayfield will undoubtedly come alive as Scotland seek to overhaul their old adversaries. After their lacklustre efforts last year, Scotland are hoping to pull the cat out of the bag in 2013.