Ayr out to spoil party

AYR join a promotion party at Richmond tonight bidding to gain revenge for last summer's pre-season loss to London Scottish.

The London club have been celebrating their elevation to the English Championship, capping a stupendous rise from the depths of the English game over the past 11 years, and they have marketed tonight's visit from the Scottish Cup champions as Friday Night: Live!

The match (7.30pm) is at the centre of an evening of entertainment that includes live music from a London band and the London Scottish Regimental Pipers, a barbecue and an after-match quiz with players and supporters.

London Scottish took part in a short tour north of the border last season and lost to Currie, but defeated Ayr 28-22 with three tries in the last quarter at Millbrae. Both teams are still putting the final touches to their preparations for a season two weeks away for the hosts, but just a week from starting for Ayr.

While Scottish have strengthened their squad significantly to cope with the step-up to England's second league, Ayr are also hopeful of using this match at the Athletic Ground as a springboard to a new challenge for the Scottish Premier One title, and their opening match at home to Edinburgh Accies.

Ayr defeated Whitecraigs, newcomers to Premier Two, 46-26 last weekend and scored some top-notch tries, but know that a step-up is needed tonight.