There’s still seven games remaining of the rugby union season for Bedford Blues, but come the summer, attention will turn to the other code, with the powers that be at Goldington Road announcing they are to host their first ever Men’s rugby league encounter.
Bedford Tigers, competing in the Southern Conference League, will play their first home game of the season at Bedford’s largest sporting arena against Eastern Rhinos on Saturday 26 April as they kick off their hopes of improving on last season’s seventh place finish.
It’s been a busy winter period for the Tigers, who return to the fourth tier of English rugby league after they lost out on their application to become the 36th professional side and a place in League One to Goole Vikings in September.
Read: Bedford Tigers lose out to Goole for professional rugby league space
It remains to be seen what happens to the third tier after Cornwall RLFC announced their withdrawal with “immediate effect” from League One, but Tigers stalwart, Rob Ashton is focused on the immediate future and an exciting opportunity for the club to play at Goldington Road.
“It’s an incredible opportunity for us to raise the profile of the club and our version of the sport,” said Ashton.
“Bedford has such an incredible rugby following and we want people to know they have a club to call their own in the summer too.
“Working with the Blues and playing at Goldington Road is really special for us. We are looking forward to creating something special on the 26th and proving that rugby league can work outside of its heartlands.”
The Southern Conference League begins this Saturday 12 April, but frustratingly for the Tigers, this is their designated free week and they will have to wait another seven days to kick off their campaign away at North Herts Crusaders.
The home encounter against the Rhinos on 26 April comes at an ideal time in what is a packed Bedford Blues calendar; they are almost half way through their bone-crushing run of ten games in eleven weeks, with 26 April their only free week.
“We are delighted to support Rob and the Tigers for this one-off game at the home of the Blues,” said Bedford Blues’ Chief Operating Officer, Gareth Alred.
“With no fixtures for either of our senior sides that weekend, it made sense for both clubs to work together and hopefully gives our supporters chance to enjoy more rugby at Goldington Road.”
Bedford Tigers also boast Women’s and Wheelchair sides, the latter beginning their competitive season, scoring ten tries in a 56-22 victory against Kings Lynn in the East RLWC.
Tickets for the clash, at just £5 per person when bought online, can be bought here along with all other games and events at Goldington Road.
