Ampthill v Ebbw Vale at Bedford

[Malpas69]

From the South Wales Argus

http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/ ... le-header/

Saracens to be Ebbw Aperitif in Friendly Double-Header

Ebbw Vale will take to the field after European giants and English champions Saracens next month.

The Steelmen arranged to lock horns with Ampthill, who are coached by former Dragons boss Paul Turner, in pre-season but the friendly was at risk because of the weather.

The English club's Dillingham Park pitch has been baked by the sun but Bedford Blues have come to the rescue.

Ebbw will take on Ampthill on Saturday, August 18 after the English Championship side have entertained Gallagher Premiership champions Saracens.

Ampthill director of rugby Mark Lavery said: "The current weather condition had left a bit of a question mark about the possibility of our fixture with Ebbw Vale going ahead.

"But after chatting with Mike [Rayer, former Wales full-back and Bedford boss] and the Blues board it was agreed that we could use Goldington Road. We are very grateful Bedford and hope that everyone has a great day of rugby."

Director of rugby Rayer added: "It's going to be a fantastic festival of rugby as we welcome Saracens, Ampthill and Ebbw Vale to Goldington Road on Saturday, August 18.

"Fingers crossed the sunshine will remain and we can all enjoy ourselves ahead of the Championship and National One seasons."

Entry to the Ebbw game will be free after the Blues' clash with Sarries has finished.

Greg Woods' side open their Premiership campaign against Llanelli at Parc y Scarlets and tune up for the trip west with away encounters at Newton Abbot and Brixham on the weekend of August 10 before heading to Bedford.