AS REVEALED IN THE PEEBLESHIRE NEWS


Premier clubs in revamp
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AS Premiership clubs enter the Scottish Hydro Electric Cup, there is speculation that it could be all-change in the competition next season.
A Working Party is currently looking at the cup structure for next season.
And according to the Glasgow Accies website (they are Selkirk’s opponents this weekend), the Premier League clubs could have their own tournament in future.
“Selkirk from the 1st Division of the Premier League are the visitors to New Anniesland in the fourth round of the SHE Cup,” they say.
“It is not often that the XV gets a chance to test themselves against such illustrious opponents, and if the SRU get their way, the Premier Division Clubs will have their own cup competition and sides like Accies will have to play in a National Leagues competition.
“It will be the last time that the smaller clubs will get their day in the sun.
“A massive result for Accies on Saturday could have an influence on that decision.”
Peebles also are on the road – like all Premiership clubs – to Whitecraigs, and Rugby Director Bob Hogarth hopes to be able to get out of his sick bed to watch the game.
Hogarth has been struck by the ’flu virus – but with Peebles not having any games over the festive season due to the weather, has not missed any of the action.
“They will be no push-over and we will field our strongest side,” he said.
“We will definitely taking this match very seriously and this match is our first since the Dundee game.”
The only first XV player missing is James Oakes.
Biggar head to Castle Douglas and a tough encounter with Stewartry, kick-off 1.30 p.m.
Biggar hope to take some support with them. “There will be room on the supporters’ bus,” said spokesman Al Stewart.
Melrose head in the same direction, but further, to Bladnoch to play Newton Stewart while Hawick are at Gordonians.

This article was originally posted on 9-Jan-2009, 19:14 by Hugh Barrow.
Last updated by Hugh Barrow on 10-Jan-2009, 08:09.