Rugby: Back to School for Ford ahead of 1872 Cup clash

Holders Edinburgh are preparing to defend the 1872 Scottish Cup with a little help from their friends.

A total of 40 Edinburgh Rugby players will travel far and wide tomorrow (Wednesday) to meet young fans from the surrounding areas, and ask them to show their support on 27 December.

Just two days after Christmas, BT Murrayfield will be the destination for one of the season’s most anticipated games when Edinburgh host Glasgow Warriors in the first round of the 1872 Scottish Cup.

Among those taking part in the Guinness PRO12 clash will be Scotland hooker and former Kelso High pupil Ross Ford, who will visit his former school.

The British and Irish Lion can’t wait to return to his old stomping ground. He said: “There is no greater motivation than a big and vocal home crowd. That’s exactly what we want on 27 December.

“Last year we won the 1872 Scottish Cup and we will do everything in our power to make sure it stays in the East.

“As a Borders lad, I know how much rugby means in the region. With their passion and support, we’ll keep the cup where it belongs.

“It is without doubt one of the biggest games of the season. Going head to head with a number of my international teammates in the national stadium always adds something extra to the game.”

Other Edinburgh Rugby stars will make the trip to almost 20 different locations, including Melrose, Jedburgh and Berwickshire.

The first leg of the 1872 cup kicks off at 3.05pm on Sunday, 27 December at BT Murrayfield. Tickets are available from www.edinburghrugby.org