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…