THE HERALD REVEALS

MSP calls for ejected clubs to be reinstated
The row over the Scottish Rugby Union's summary ejection of Cumbernauld and St Boswells from the Scottish Cup has reached Holyrood, with an MSP calling for the clubs' reinstatement.

The missive from Cathie Craigie, who represents Cumbernauld and Kilsyth, to Jim Stevenson, the SRU's president and Gordon McKie, their chief executive, reflects the depth of feeling generated in that area by what is widely seen as a glaringly unfair decision.

The SRU have been working hard to improve their image among politicians, engaging in a charm offensive in trying to outline what they are doing for the wider community. However, in her missive, Craigie has turned their claims back on them, pointing out that this decision is not in line with SRU boasts about their efforts at grassroots level or their awareness of the economic benefits the sport can generate.

In relation to the work being done to widen interest in the sport, she observed: "With the dramatic increase in youth participation in Scottish rugby since 2006, I believe it is a poor example to grassroots participants to see clubs from the Scottish regional leagues removed from a competition in favour of teams from the national league."

As for economic benefits, the SRU have sought to lobby politicians for fiscal support on the basis of their contribution to the economy, yet Craigie pointed out that they have missed an opportunity to let clubs help themselves financially.

"Research shows matches will bring an estimated £50m net spending to the Edinburgh economy, benefiting all kinds of business in the area. It is disappointing that you do not recognise the economic benefits Cumbernauld RFC's participation in this tournament brings to the constituency I represent."

On Thursday, Cumbernauld are to submit a paper to the SRU board registering protest at the decision and asking for it to be reconsidered.

Fans with laptops
Wee clubs deserve apology from SRU
I read with disbelief about the SRU's crass indifference to grassroots rugby when Cumbernauld and St Boswells, who had earned their place in the next round of the Scottish Cup, were dismissed out of hand because of fixture congestion. It was sheer arrogance.

I was delighted to see Howe of Fife's victory over Glasgow Hawks at Duffus Park at the weekend, not because Hawks were put out, but because the win serves to show that no team are safe.

The romance of the cup, even in rugby circles, is a great thing for lesser clubs. Had the SRU followed their line of thinking and Howe of Fife were dismissed because they were in a lower division, where would Scottish rugby be?

Rugby only survives at the top because of a strong base and we keep hearing how anxious the SRU are to encourage young men to take up this fine game.

I now hope the cowardly committe at Murrayfield can find some way to apologise to both St Boswells and Cumbernauld. They deserve nothing less.
Gordon McCready, via email

This article was originally posted on 24-Feb-2009, 08:02 by Hugh Barrow.
Last updated by Hugh Barrow on 24-Feb-2009, 20:19.