Edinburgh ‘A’ to face Newcastle Red Bulls U23s in special Doddie Cup fixture at The Greenyards

The match forms part of Melrose Rugby’s 150th anniversary celebrations and will raise vital funds for My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. Entry will be pay on the gate only, and all gate money will go directly to the Foundation.

Melrose Rugby will also host a ticketed pre-match function on the night, with details on how to book to be announced in due course.

The fixture is the latest in Edinburgh Rugby’s extended A-team programme for the 2026/27 season. Edinburgh ‘A’ have already faced Ealing Trailfinders, Leinster A, Harlequins Jesters and Leicester Tigers U23s this current campaign.

Supporters who can’t make it to the Borders will be able to watch the match live on Newcastle Red Bulls’ YouTube channel.

Edinburgh Rugby Managing Director Douglas Struth said: “We’re delighted to be taking part in this fixture and helping to raise money for such a brilliant cause in My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. It’s a real privilege to play at The Greenyards, one of the most famous venues in world rugby, and to be part of Melrose’s 150th anniversary celebrations.

“We’re really looking forward to going head-to-head with our friends south of the border at Newcastle Red Bulls. Melrose is only a short trip for fans of both Edinburgh and Newcastle, and we’d love to see supporters from both sides come along and pack out The Greenyards for what promises to be a great Friday night in December.”

Newcastle Red Bulls sporting general manager, Neil McIlroy said: “Doddie was a hugely respected figure in rugby and someone who holds a special place in Newcastle’s history.

“Having represented all of the clubs involved in this fixture, he leaves a lasting legacy across the game. It’s particularly special for us to be hosting this fixture in his name and helping continue the fantastic work of My Name’5 Doddie Foundation.

“It’s a great opportunity to bring people together for a brilliant cause, while also celebrating Melrose Rugby’s 150th anniversary. We’re looking forward to taking on Edinburgh, welcoming supporters from both sides of the border and putting on an entertaining evening of rugby at the Greenyards.”

Doug Crawford, Melrose Rugby General Manager said: “To be hosting the Doddie Cup at the Greenyards in our 150^th anniversary is absolutely fantastic. Doddie meant the world to Melrose Rugby and his legacy remains at the heart of the club, so to be raising funds for My Name’5 Doddie Foundation on the 11^th December is great.

“Both Newcastle and Edinburgh have been brilliant to work with and I’m excited to see the two sides go head-to-head. I’m sure there will be some familiar faces in both sides, so it should be a cracking evening of rugby and a great night for all the family.”

DODDIE CUP FIXTURE DETAILS

Edinburgh ‘A’ vs Newcastle Red Bulls U23s
Friday 11 December, kick-off 7.30pm
Greenyards, Melrose
Entry: Pay on the gate only, with all gate money going to My Name’5 Doddie Foundation
Live stream: Newcastle Red Bulls YouTube channel