Goldington Road is getting set for a double header this weekend, with Bedford Blues finishing their league campaign against Coventry on Saturday afternoon while England Under 19’s return to town on Friday evening.
With the World Rugby U20 Championship just around the corner in South Africa, the nation’s top young players will be vying to impress the Head of the U20’s programme, Alan Dickens who will be keeping a keen eye on proceedings.
The large squad have already impressed, as they saw off their Welsh counterparts 60-14 last Saturday in Bristol and Dickens will be looking for a similar result when they welcome Italy to Goldington Road.
The fight for World Championship places begin
“The U19 matches are an opportunity to see players develop and perform at the international level against their own age group, including the eight players who have already been involved in the England U20 setup”, said Dickens.
“It’s also a chance for players to put their hands up for the upcoming Under-20 World Championships in South Africa.
“It was these same fixtures last year that propelled some of our current U20 players, such as Charlie Bracken and Sam Harris, into contention for the Summer Series and this year’s Six Nations tournament.”
The famous Friday night atmosphere at Goldington Road will only add to the occasion, with the ground hosting two England vs Italy fixtures back in 2019.
England Under 20’s defeated Italy in the U20 Six Nations while England Women saw off Italian opposition in the Quilter International later that year.
Commenting on the announcement, Blues Chief Operating Officer, Gareth Alred said, “We are really looking forward to this age group international and welcoming both teams.
“A few years ago, we set a target to make Goldington Road the home of representative rugby for England and Italy, so are proud to have the chance to host this match.”
“Bedford is a rugby town with a huge Italian community, so it is the perfect setting for such an encounter. We’re hoping for a huge buzz around the town again and are delighted for our supporters and the community.”
Tickets for both England vs Italy on Friday night and Blues against Coventry the following day are still available to purchase here.
