Brothers in Arms: Blyth-Laffertys make history for Scotland U20

• 9 Jul 2024
• Features

Edinburgh Rugby academy hooker Jerry Blyth-Lafferty almost got to trade tackles with his brother Ollie in a recent FOSROC Super Series match but representing Scotland U20 together proved even more special.

The front-row duo became the first brothers to play for Scotland U20 in a competitive fixture in last week’s 123-15 World Rugby U20 Trophy victory against Samoa, a moment their parents were particularly proud of. They even contributed three tries in a record-breaking win at Hive Stadium.

“Our parents were just delighted,” Jerry said. “We really appreciate how much effort they put in taking us to training over the years.”

While their dad, a Boroughmuir prop, might have nudged them towards the front row, it was clear they enjoyed the physical side of the game. “We both enjoyed the confrontational side,” Jerry admitted.

This experience has only strengthened their bond. “I don’t think there’s anything that can compare to an international,” Jerry said about playing alongside Ollie. “It’s definitely not something I’ll forget any time soon.”

Back on the club front, Jerry has gained valuable experience playing for both Edinburgh A and Watsonians. “It makes you look at the game from a more broad standpoint,” he explained.

“I think it was really good for me to get a taste of different environments and dip in and out of teams that play the game in a different way. It definitely benefited me going from Edinburgh A to Watsonians and covering the back row a bit as well.

“My dad certainly wasn’t happy, one of us at Watsonians and the other one at Heriot’s! He did still come to games and cheer us both on. The boys at Watsons, they welcomed me straight away and they were really good socially, so I found it quite easy to slot in to that, they’re a good group of boys.”

With the U20 tournament in full swing, the team has become a close unit. “We’re a really close group,” Jerry said. “It’s good to have that social connection, whether it be coffee or the driving range.”

While they might not always be on the same team, the Blyth-Lafferty brothers are certainly ones to watch for the future of Edinburgh Rugby. And the duo will once again be hoping to be involved as Scotland U20 face Japan U20 in a crucial final pool stage fixture this Friday night at Hive Stadium (12 July, kick-off 7.45pm).

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