Feature

Edinburgh Rugby opts to continue playing at Myreside

Pro12 Scottish rugby union club Edinburgh Rugby will continue to play the majority of its home matches at New Myreside, rather than at the much larger Murrayfield.

While the club will play a select number of its games at the 67,800-capacity Murrayfield, Edinburgh has opted to play a minimum of nine matches at the 5,000-seat Myreside stadium.

During the 2016-17 season, the club carried out a six-game trial at Myreside, followed by a thorough review with the supporters, local residents and key stakeholders, including players and coaches.

Edinburgh Rugby found that, while fans enjoyed the quality facilities available at Murrayfield, the feedback showed a continued push for improving the matchday experience at Myreside.

The results provided a basis for the club’s decision to play the majority of its home games at Myreside, while select games such as the annual 1872 Cup clash will be played at Murrayfield.

Edinburgh Rugby managing director, Jonny Petrie, said: “I’m thrilled to be able to confirm that Myreside will continue to be our home, which allows (head coach) Richard Cockerill and his team to plan ahead for the forthcoming Guinness Pro12 and European Cup campaigns.

“We feel we have created solid foundations for a truly special fan experience at Myreside, but also appreciate that we still have work to do in order to make the ground a home for our club and our supporters; the feedback has told us that.

“We’ll continue to work alongside local residents, supporters and our various stakeholders, to keep improving the matchday experience, making the ground a fitting home for our loyal and deserving fans.”

Cockerill added: “We as a team feel that the intimacy of Myreside will bring the supporters closer to the action and provide the best atmosphere to help drive the players forward on the park.

“Having a home for the club is vital, and the team are fully supportive and excited by the chance to play at Myreside for the foreseeable future.”

Due to the venue decision being made and dates finally confirmed, the club has released its season ticket memberships today (Wednesday).

Edinburgh Rugby is one of only two Scottish clubs playing in the Pro12 league, along with the Glasgow Warriors.

Image: Daniel