1st XV News

Bedford Blues have continued their preparations for the 2017/18 season with two new signings along with the retention of three members of the current squad.

Making their way to Goldington Road next season will be Ealing Trailfinders prop Alex Penny along with Wasps hooker George Edgson, who had been on loan with the Blues this season. Remaining with Bedford next season will be this season's top try scorer Dean Adamson, fullback Elliot Clements-Hill and back rower Justin Blanchet.

Bedford Blues were given a big workout ahead of their final three Championship fixtures as Premiership giants Northampton Saints descended on Goldington Road and duly left with a 17-52 win.

The game was never about the result for either team, but there were plenty of positives for the Blues to take away including two good tries scored by Tom James and Pat Tapley.

Speaking at the full-time whistle, the Blues returning skipper Michael Le Bourgeois said: “The boys played really well, there’s a lot of learning for us to take from it but we created some good opportunities and there’s a lot of positives to take as we head into the final few weeks of the season.

Bedford Blues have named a 25 man squad as they prepare to face near neighbours under the Friday Night Lights at Goldington Road.

Following the sad demise of London Welsh, a gap in the Blues fixture list appeared but the void was soon filled by Northampton Saints who are still pushing hard for a play-off spot in the Aviva Premiership. With a weekend off themselves, Jim Mallinder's men agreed to travel along the A428 for the much anticipated fixture.

This weekend sees the renewal of old rivalries as Bedford Blues welcome Northampton Saints for a much-anticipated Friday night lights fixture against our near neighbours (KO 7:45pm).

Mike Rayer and his counterpart Jim Mallinder are both expected to name strong squads for this Friday’s fixture, as Blues and Saints target improved finishes to the season in the GKIPA Championship and Aviva Premiership respectively.

The now annual Bedford Blues Rugby and Beer Festival takes place this weekend on Friday night and all day Saturday. Two of the town’s great institutions come together once again to host a bigger and better two dayer at Goldington Road.

While there is nothing better than watching Bedford take on Northampton Saints on the rugby field, the experience can always be improved and this weekend both sets of fans will be able to enjoy top-class rugby alongside some of the finest ales.