Rugby: How the split works

Following yesterday's fixtures the 24 teams in Premier 1 and 2 now split into three groups of eight and will play a single match against each of their group opponents.

Group 1 teams retain the points won in the first half of the season and are playing for the title of Scottish champions. In addition, the top three qualify for next season's British & Irish Cup.

In Group 2 the teams start on zero points. The top four will compete in Premier 1 next season. Group 3 teams retain their points. The bottom two will be relegated to Premier 3.

The fixtures will be announced on Tuesday.

GROUP 1

Melrose

Glasgow Hawks

Ayr

Heriot's

Currie

Dundee HSFP

Boroughmuir

Hawick

GROUP 2

Stirling County

West of Scotland

Watsonians

Selkirk

Edinburgh Accies

Gala

Aberdeen GSFP

Peebles

GROUP 3

Jed-Forest

Hillhead/Jordanhill

Falkirk

Biggar

Stewart's Melville

Kirkcaldy

Kelso

GHA