European title defence followed by Derby Day as University rugby teams head to The Rec
The University of Bath’s rugby players will be looking to defend their European title this weekend on the first of two visits in five days to The Recreation Ground, the home of Bath Rugby.
After taking on teams from across the continent in the Red Bull Uni 7s on Saturday, the men in Blue and Gold will face rivals from closer to home – Bristol University – in the first match of the new British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS) season on Wednesday.
The Red Bull Uni 7s is taking place as part of a day-long celebration of rugby at The Rec to mark Bath Rugby’s 150th anniversary.
There will be nine matches between 12.20pm and 3pm, followed by two semi-finals (3.40pm and 4pm), the Plate final at 4.20pm and Bronze final at 4.40pm.
The final itself will take place at 6.30pm during half-time of the West Country Challenge Cup match between Premiership rivals Bath Rugby and Gloucester Rugby. It will also be streamed live to the Red Bull 7s festival area on the outer field of The Rec.
The University of Bath, as defending champions, will face competition from other famous rugby institutions representing the countries in the Six Nations, including Cardiff Metropolitan University, Hartpury College and Edinburgh University.
Entry to the Red Bull 7s is free but a ticket is required for the match between Bath Rugby and Gloucester Rugby.
The University of Bath’s 1st XV will then return to action on Wednesday when they face Bristol University on Derby Day.
It is again taking place at The Rec and entry is free, although people who buy a programme for £2 will be entered into a draw to win a signed England Rugby World Cup shirt.
Kick-off is 6pm and the match will be preceded by a touch-rugby tournament on the St Johns Sports Pitches at the University of Bath from 12-3pm.
Picture by Alex Broadway
