Swindon stages World's first Rugby League Masters Nines Festival

By Barrie Hudson - 29 July 2024

Sport
  • (Photo by John Gallagher)

    (Photo by John Gallagher)

Swindon St George hosted the first ever Rugby League Nines Festival and saw players descend on Greenbridge Road from clubs across the south of England.

  • (Photo by John Gallagher)

    (Photo by John Gallagher)

They came from as far afield as Brixton Bulls, Solent Spitfires and Aldershot and Fleet. 

Ages ranged from the lower limit of 35 to the oldest player there at 73, with each age group playing alongside one another, under different contact and tackling rules appropriate to the various age brackets. 

A spokesperson said: "The referees are well coursed in keeping the games flowing and, for the players, it is always a joyful experience to being able to carry on enjoying the game they love.

True to the fun element, zero points are awarded for tries scored, so with no kicking involved in this version of League, all games end up with a 0-0 scoreline, the pleasure coming from the actual scoring, rather than from points gained. 

"But with no formal winners or losers to announce, an award for the team adjudged on the day as playing the best football, within the true spirit of Masters RL, was presented to the St George B team. 

"A further honour went to the same side, with Anthony Boland being named Player of the Festival."

The SSG Masters RL side are next in action on Saturday 3 August with the powerful Cardiff Blue Dragons in town, and kick-off is at 2.30pm with a licensed bar and food available. 

All spectators are more than welcome, and admission is free. 

More information about Rugby League in Swindon can be found at [email protected]

(Pictures: John Gallagher)

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