Rugby derby to be broadcast live on TV

Published on Friday 10 October 2008 10:26

THE Edinburgh rugby derby between Boroughmuir and Heriot's tomorrow (Saturday) is to be televised live on digital TV.

New Gaelic-language channel BBC Alba will screen the Scottish Hydro Electric Premiership game from Meggetland, which kicks off at 3pm.

Discussions between BBC Alba and Scottish Rugby over a formal broadcasting agreement are still going on and said to be at an advanced stage but the parties have agreed to go ahead and show tomorrow's game.

Scottish Rugby chief executive Gordon McKie said: "We're delighted at the real enthusiasm from BBC Alba to work with us to increase the exposure of our game.

"Coverage begins tomorrow with a live transmission of the match between Edinburgh rivals Boroughmuir and Heriot's and I very much hope we will be able to announce further details shortly of our relationship with BBC Alba and the benefit it will generate for rugby at a number of levels."

Alasdair Morrison, Chairman of MG Alba, said: "We are delighted to bring live Scottish rugby to television screens and look forward to delivering a brilliant rugby package through the season.

"The screening of live club rugby complements BBC Alba's 'as live' coverage on a Saturday evening of an SPL football match and the combination will provide an excellent sports service, which should be extremely attractive to both Gaelic and non-Gaelic viewers."

Boroughmuir coach Eamon John said: "I think it's good for the club game and hopefully will increase interest."

Heriot's captain Tam McVie added: "Anything to try to raise the profile of club rugby is to be commended because there is a huge amount of good rugby to be seen."