Under 16's Pull Of Another Great Victory!

Under 16's Take European Title

Scotland Under-16s have pulled off a shock triumph to win the European Youth Rugby League Festival, beating Russia 14-0 in the final in Germany this afternoon. Scotland, coached by former Scotland international and Castleford Tigers full-back Jason Flowers, reached the final with a 22-4 win over the host nation in Baden-Württemberg on Friday. Russia had beaten Serbia in their semi-final. It is success at the first attempt for Flowers' newly-formed squad, which is the culmination of the recently-launched Scotland Rugby League Player Development Centre.

The victory continues an outstanding August for Scottish rugby league, with Scotland A finishing runners-up in the Four Nations Championship and Scotland Under-18s beating England Colleges.

Scotland U16 squad: Ewan Grindley, Gavin Reed, Mitchell Scott, Carwyn Walker (all Aberdeen Spartans); George Watt (Deeside); Gary Doherty, Jason Haggarty, Fraser Mctaggart, Stephen Sleery (all Easterhouse Panthers); Gregor Ramsay, Calum Rennie, Craig Reid (all Falkirk Romans); Connor Edwards, Andrew Pollock (both Fife); Sinclair Matthews (Jarrow Vikings and Leeds Rhinos Academy); Daniel Godfrey, Cameron Hughes (both Moray Titans); Ryan McKeown, Kristofer Walker (both Victoria Knights); Craig Allan (Wallsend Eagles)

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Scotland Rugby League Volunteer Vacancies

A unique opportunity has arisen within Scotland Rugby League for positions within the Regional Player Development Centres in the North of Scotland and in the Central Belt of Scotland.

Scotland Clinch Second Place With Victory Over Ireland

SCOTLAND WIN FINAL MATCH TO CLAIM SECOND PLACE

Ireland kicked off to Scotland in the final match of the 2011 Amateur Four Nations, in what was to be the second thrilling encounter of the day at Scotstoun Stadium after Scotland Rugby League's Under 18 squad disposed of England Colleges Under 19's by 14 - 12. Scotland 'A' required a 3 point win to finish second in the Amateur Four Nations which they finished off in style to defeat the Wolfhounds by 26 - 18.

Mike Stewart broke down the far flank and offloaded to Mark Greenwood who was held up in the tackle and Ireland recovered possession. Ireland received a penalty after the kick through Scotland playing the ball in an offside position which gave them a platform to mount their attack. Quick line speed by Dom Pullen forced an error from the Irish Centre and Scotland was awarded a penalty for offside. The Scots worked well up field before being halted at their own line.

Some skilful play by Grodynski released Greenwood down the wing before offloading to Stewart who half broke before Parkinson received the ball wide and slid over for the score. Grodynski converted putting Scotland into a 6 - 0 lead.

Ireland began their attack in the Scottish half but was thwarted through resilient defence led by Scotland's Dave Vernon. Ireland was awarded a penalty and Aaron McCloskey led the charge crashing over the Scottish line to score. Carmody added the extras to level the scores at 6 - 6.

Scotland worked out of their 20 metre area before Grodynski kicked long. Vernon led the chase that took down Taylor just outside the Irish 20. Scotland conceded a penalty in their own half that left them desperately scrambling and it was Vernon who came up with the goods intercepting the Irish pass but was brought down.

As the Irish attacked the Scots defence put pressure on them and forced the Irish wing into touch but a loose carry from McNee left the Scots defending deep in their own half. The defence forced the error from the Irish centre and Scotland regained possession. Coupar kicked long. Taylor broke the defensive line but was brought down in a quick scramble from Jarvis.

Scotland attacked erratically down the left flank but couldn't penetrate the defensive line. Ireland elected to kick early and kicked long which left Broere with a difficult bounce but he gathered and half broke through the middle of the park.

Ireland moved up field through Carmody and Boyle with some good handling play from Flanagan, Ireland had a chance down the close wing as Parkhill received the ball a forward pass was awarded letting the Scots off the hook. Grodynski kicked the ball long which bounced over the dead ball line but Ireland infringed on the 20 restart and Scotland were awarded a penalty which allowed second rower Mike Stewart the opportunity to break the Irish line and dive over for the score, Grodynski' kick was unsuccessful leaving the score 10 - 6 in Scotland's favour.

Ireland threatened in attack through Mulhern and Barcoe but was unable to breach the Scottish defence before the halftime break.

HALF TIME


SCOTLAND 10 - 6 SCOTLAND

Scotland restarted the second half, Coupar took the ball in before offloading to Vernon who split the Irish defence and managed to offload to the supporting Mike Stewart to race in for his second score of the day. Grodynski converted to give Scotland a 16 - 6 lead.

From the restart, Scotland conceded a penalty that allowed Irelands' Barcoe a chance out wide but it was Callum Cockburn knocked on in an attempt to intercept. Ireland had an overlap but strong defence from Parkinson and Broere forced Ireland to miss the pass and Scotland recovered possession.

Grodynski passed the ball to Mcnee who shipped the ball wide that unleashed Dom Pullen who outpaced the Irish defence to score in the corner. Grodynski conversion attempt bounced off the crossbar to further increase Scotland's lead to 20 - 6.

Ireland mounted an attack that looked to be the best of the match so far as Rathati broke the Scottish line before offloading to Flannigan who spread the ball wide to McCloskey. Superb defence from Grodynski dislodged the ball McNally. Scotland worked out of pressure but a knock on put them back under the Irish's' hammering attack but again the stubborn Scottish defence from Cockburn and Broere put Taylor into touch.

A penalty against Vernon for a high tackle saw Ireland again attack the Scottish line this time however it was McNally who stretched out to score for Ireland. Cross added the extras. Scotland 20 - 12 Ireland.
Scotland conceded a penalty for a high tackle against Martyn Nicol which allowed Ireland to work up field before Barcoe stretched out under the posts giving Cross an easy conversion to take them within 2 points of Scotland (20 - 18).

Scotland were awarded 2 back to back penalties that put them into the Irish half, Mcnee dinked a kick in goal for Pullen to cross but the kick ran long.

Scotland charged again through the backs and Broere was in support of Pullen and stepped inside of Taylor to score to the left of the uprights. Grodynski converted giving Scotland a 26 - 18 lead.
Ireland began their attack again and kicked deep, the ball bounced high in goal and Broere returned the ball 30 metres before being taken down. Vernon worked the ball into the Irish 20 metre before following up with a solid chase to close down any Irish counter attack.

With minutes to go Scotland worked the ball well with Vernon kicking in goal and Pullen catching the Irish attacker to force a drop out.

With that the final whistle sounded and Scotland recorded a 26 - 18 victory that put them into second place in the final standings for the Amateur Four Nations 2011.

Scotland:


1: Nick Broere
2: Dom Pullen
3: Rob Sloman
4: Callum Cockburn
5: Mark Greenwood
6: Dave Vernon
7; Andy Grodynski
8: Colin Jarvis
9: Nathan Crichton
10: Niall Parkinson
11: Mike Stewart
12: Mattie McNee
13: Paddy Coupar
14: Ross Grady
15: Ray Festorazzi
16: Martyn Nicoll
17: Greg Wallace


Try's
Parkinson, Stewart (2), Pullen, Broere
Conversions:
Grodynski (3)


Ireland:


1: Joe Taylor
2: Mark Tuohy
3: Joe Mulhern
4: Paddy Barcoe
5: David Parkhill
6: Sean Carmody
7: Brian Flannigan
8: Brendan Guillfoyle
9: Conor McNally
10: Aaron McCloskey
11: Alan Trenier
12: Paddy Boyle
13: Ian Cross
14: Alan McNamara
15: Tom Ratahi
16: Cahal O' Reilly
17: Mark O Neill


Try's
McCloskey, McNally, Barcoe
Conversions:
Cross (2)

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Scotland looking for second place

Scotland need a win by more than 2 points against Ireland


Scotland ‘A' only need to secure a win by 2 points against Ireland to finish joint second with England and Ireland in the Amateur Four Nations. Wales have already secured the trophy for the 8th time after a Grand Slam victory over England Lionhearts last weekend.

The Scots who play Ireland in the final match of the competition at Glasgow's Scotstoun Stadium will be looking to secure their first win in this years' competition by at least 3 points to snatch second place away from Ireland or England.

Head Coach Ash Carroll is confident that Scotland is in a position to defeat the Irish at home.
"It's been another tough task to select the side to play Ireland but this is testament to how strong our squad is this year. With the depth in the squad I've been able to tailor a side that I think will be able to turn Ireland over."

"This season has been pretty hard on the guys with two long away trips but they have played some great rugby in those matches and I think we just haven't had the rub of the green on occasion and have let the games slip with concentration lapses. That said...I am confident that that won't be the case tomorrow."

Scotland ‘A' who were the defending champions of the Cheltenham Regency Trophy defeated the Irish last year in Dublin by 10 - 6 in what was a closely fought physical game which is expected to be the case in tomorrow's clash which Carroll hopes will bring out the best in his players.

"There is a massive opportunity on offer in the match tomorrow to finish second overall in the competition as well as to impress the coaches of the full international squad who will be looking at the Scotland ‘A' squad to bring players up into the professional camp for this autumns internationals against Ireland and France."

In the Under 18 competition Scotland U18 take on England Colleges in the curtain raiser to the Scotland ‘A' match which will see the victor claim the "Auld Enemy trophy". The Under 18 match kicks off at 12:00pm

Scotland U18 vs. England Colleges and Scotland ‘A' vs. Ireland ‘A'

12:00pm and 2:00pm Kick offs

Saturday 13th August

Scotstoun Stadium

Glasgow.

Adults: £5 / Concessions: £2 / Under 12's: FREE

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Eagles lift their 8th title

SCOTLAND RUGBY LEAGUE PREMIER GRAND FINAL


EDINBURGH EAGLES 26 - 10 AYRSHIRE STORM

Edinburgh Eagles claimed their 8th Scottish Conference title after defeating Ayrshire Storm in a dominant display. The Eagles had the vast majority of the possession in the first 10 minutes of the match and utilised their territorial advantage through Andy Grodynski who jinxed his way through the Ayrshire defence to score the opener for the Eagles. Grodynski converted his own try to increase the lead to 6 - 0.

Ayrshire battled hard in defence with fierce tackling from Brian Hendry, Tony Wright and Ewan Morrison but it was Edinburgh winger Mark Robertson who received a ball out wide from Callum Cockburn to dive over in the corner to give the Eagles a 10 - 0 lead.

Ayrshire battled back and put Edinburgh under pressure and Ruchin Fillander powered his way up field but Ayrshire were unable to break through the Edinburgh line. With no joy through the middle of the park the Storm spun the ball wide into space 10 metres from the Edinburgh line but a knock over the line let the Eagles off the hook and allowed them to retain their lead.

Play was stopped as Fillander took a head knock in the tackle and Edinburgh's Grodynski stayed down after a neck injury. Fillander left the field of play whilst Grodynski was stretchered off. Ayrshire began to dominate possession and Edinburgh found themselves conceding penalties close to their own line but were able to regain possession and work up field. With the structure they had, Paddy Coupar moved the ball wide before darting it back inside to Dave Vernon who dually crossed for Edinburgh and gave them a 14 - 0 lead moving into half time.

HALF TIME

EDINBURGH EAGLES 14 - 0 AYRSHIRE STORM

The second half started with Ayrshire Storm taking control with some good attacking play which put Edinburgh under pressure in their own 20 metre area but were unable to capitalise on the pressure and the Eagles regained possession. The game drifted into a midfield battle as both teams failed to capitalise on errors and couldn't secure possession for long enough to mount an attack.

It was Edinburgh who finally broke the deadlock after an Ayrshire Knock on, Calum Anderson ran in over the whitewash on the far side to take Edinburgh into a commanding 18-0 lead.

Ayrshire looked as if they might come back into the match after again exerting pressure on the Edinburgh line through Rodgers and Johnson but a missed penalty kick to touch saw the Eagles work up field and from a Paddy Coupar kick, Robertson regained possession and dived over the Ayrshire line to score. Edinburgh 22 - 0 Ayrshire.

Edinburgh's final try of the match came from Cameron Jackson who broke the line to score in the corner and took Edinburgh into a 26 - 0 lead.

With 15 minutes to go it looked as if the tides might be changing after Edinburgh conceded a number of penalties which gifted Ayrshire field position before Paul Johnson scored out wide with Gordon Powrie, kicking the extras. 26 - 6.

It was Ayrshire on the attack again in the final moments of the game and Alistair Maxwell powered over to pull back the score line to 26 - 10.

Ayrshire began to rally but Edinburgh's first half and start to the second proved too much to overcome and at the final whistle Edinburgh were crowned worthy victors of the Scottish Conference Premier division.

Edinburgh Eagles:


Broere, Robertson, Cockburn, Jackson, Anderson, Vernon, Grodynski, Carroll, Lomax, Jarvis, Seddon, Parkinson, Coupar, Grady, Buchanan, Johnston, Steele.


Ayrshire Storm:


Muir, Murray, Wright, Fillander, Carson, Crangle, Powrie, Hendry, Johnson, Savage, Festorazzi, Maxwell, Morrison, Rodgers, Marshall, O'Neil, Duncan.


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Warriors outclass spirited Titans

SCOTLAND RUGBY LEAGUE DIVISION 1 GRAND FINAL


MORAY TITANS 4 - 72 ABERDEEN WARRIORS

Moray Titans came into the Grand Final as underdogs having to play undefeated Aberdeen Warriors in the Division 1 Grand Final at Scotstoun in what was a bruising encounter for the Titans. Aberdeen were first to cross the line through Richard Roach who darted round the outside of the Moray flank to give them an early 6 - 0 lead with a successful conversion attempt.

It looked as if the game might become a tic for tat affair as Titans captain Phil Abbott cut back inside close to the Aberdeen line to cross. The conversion attempt was unsuccessful and Aberdeen retained a 6 - 4 lead.

Aberdeen mounted pressure on the Moray line and it was Roach again who broke through crossing for his second, the conversion sailed over (12 - 4). Moray tried to fight back but couldn't find away over the Aberdeen line and broke down the wing through Minellas who scored in the corner, conversion was unsuccessful (16 - 4).

Moray played some good rugby through Harrison, Jolly and Holt but again couldn't utilise the possession and gifted Aberdeen a series of scores through Roach (2), McCall and Minellas to leave Aberdeen with a comfortable 36 - 4 lead at the Half.

The Warriors were relentless in their attack with a series of tries in the opening stages, Moray fought back bravely and half broke through Duncan and again with Coulby but they couldn't get through the Stubborn Aberdeen defence but Aberdeen were beginning to run away with the match at 50 - 4. The Elgin outfit troubles went from bad to worse as Jamie McMillan had to retire with a popped AC joint and Garden had to leave the field with a head gash.

Aberdeen took full advantage of the weakened Titans and ran in 4 scores in quick succession that firmly closed the door on a Titans revival as they moved to a 62 - 4 advantage. The match began to close down and Titans kept on working in defence but Aberdeen proved to strong as Hume crossed and Bingham crossed over after a long range effort to close out the match 72 - 4.

Moray Titans:


McBean, Keenan, Jones, McGettrick, Woodward, Harrison, Abbott, Macmillan, Holt, Coulby, Duncan, Garden, Jolly, Stronach, Sharp, Simpson.


Aberdeen Warriors:


Little, Minellas, Robertson, Roach, Lee, Hume, McNair, Reid, Maddox, Hazzard, Hackett, Parker, Bingham, Parslow, Robertson, McCulloch.

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Panthers just too strong for Spartans

SCOTLAND RUGBY LEAGUE UNDER 17 GRAND FINAL


EASTERHOUSE PANTHERS 54 - 18 ABERDEEN SPARTANS

Easterhouse Panthers reclaimed their title as Under 17 Champions after a 54 - 18 victory over Aberdeen Spartans. It was a game that produced some excellent passages of play and saw some fantastic tries. Easterhouse went into the match as hot favourites having been undefeated in the National Youth League but Aberdeen put up a strong fight.

It was Easterhouse who started the match the better notching up a couple of scores early through Love, Gemell and McConville. Aberdeen fought back through McIlroy and Reid to leave the half time 28 - 8.

Easterhouse started the second half much as they did the first and scores a rake of tries through Love, McConville, Senter Breen and McNeil but Aberdeen again fought back scoring tries themselves through McIllroy and Sharp.

It was Cuthbertson for Panthers who closed out the match and secured the win and McTaggart converting five kicks with Panthers running out 54 - 18 winners.

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Panthers Triumph over Falkirk Romans

SCOTLAND RUGBY LEAGUE UNDER 15 GRAND FINAL


Easterhouse Panthers 26 - 6 Falkirk Romans

In a match that was picked as one of the matches to watch of finals day after Falkirk Romans in their debut season were looking to defeat Easterhouse Panthers. The match started with a series of scores from Easterhouse that gave them a 14 - 0 lead. The first of which the Panthers spread wide to the wing to cross, the second saw some good open play from the Easterhouse players before the broke down the wing to cross and the final try in the first half saw the Panthers power through the middle of the Falkirk pack.

Falkirk stepped up and put pressure on the Panthers line and looked threatening as they attacked the line buta series of unforced errors gifted possession back to the Panthers but the Romans stood firm into halftime (14 - 0)

After the break it was Falkirk who looked as if they might start to come back as they worked the ball up field before finally diving over for a score which was converted (14 - 6). The match stayed at 14 - 0 for the duration of the second half as both teams battled for possession but couldn't find the break through. It was Easterhouse who finally broke down the wing to score a long range effort that was converted to extend their lead to 20 - 6.

Falkirk tried to get back into the match and broke the Easterhouse line but some solid scramble tackling put the Falkirk player into touch and provided Easterhouse with Possession going into the final minutes of the game. Falkirk Romans held on until the last few minutes but Easterhouses forwards were too strong and crossed close to the posts allowing for a successful conversion and a secured win for the Panthers 26 - 6.

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RLC teams ready for Finals!

RUGBY LEAGUE CONFERENCE CLUBS READY FOR CLASHES AT SCOTSTOUN

The next two weeks in the Scotland Rugby League calendar will be a showcase of what the domestic game in Scotland has to offer. This weekends' Finals day will encompass games at Under 15, Under 17 and both Rugby League Conference Divisions. The following weekend (13th August) Scotland Under 18's take on England Colleges and Scotland ‘A' are back in action against the Irish at Scotstoun Stadium in their only home game of the season, they will be trying to secure a second place finish in the 2011 Amateur Four Nations.

The Rugby League Conference (RLC) matches at this years' Scotland Rugby League Finals day are promising to be both exciting and enthralling with the senior clubs all ready and all eagerly trying to get their hands on their respective trophies.

The Division 1 final between Moray Titans and Aberdeen Warriors will see both teams make the journey south on Saturday to their first ever finals. Both in their inaugural year, it is testament to both clubs' hard work that two teams from the North / North East of Scotland will be playing for the title of Division 1 champions with aspirations of joining the Premier Division in 2012.

Aberdeen Warriors head coach Craig Parslow is relishing the opportunity to play this weekend and thinks it would be the perfect end to the season if the Warriors can secure a win.

"It has been a great year for Rugby League in the North East of Scotland. The Warriors have been training and playing hard all season and are excited to be in their first Grand Final, after winning the Division 1 league. A win the Grand Final, it would be the perfect end to a fantastic year."

A thought on the development of the sport in the North of Scotland similarly echoed by Moray Titans head coach Adam Harrison who thinks the Moray Titans playing in the Grand Final is a fantastic achievement.

"Moray Titans are proud to be playing in the Division 1 Grand Final against out northern neighbours Aberdeen, and at such a spectacular venue as Scotstoun Stadium, Glasgow. We started off in 2011 with high hopes of forming a Community Rugby League club in the North of Scotland and to finish on such a high note, regardless of the result on Saturday is a fantastic achievement for the club. We know it's going to be a physical test against the league leaders but even the best aren't unbeatable."
The RLC Premier Grand Final will see last year's runners up Edinburgh Eagles try to go one better to reclaim the title of Scottish Champions for the 8th year in their history. Edinburgh finished the league section of the season 6 points clear, which head coach Ash Carroll credited to hard work at training.


"It's great to be back in the final this year as it represents reward for a lot of work the lads have put in. We have really developed as a squad this year and it's been really tough to cut down to a 17 man squad for the final. The guys are all looking forward to playing at Scotstoun, it's a world class venue and a fitting venue for the end of the season. It will be a great day with the two junior games and division 1 final before the Premier Final."

Edinburgh will be playing Ayrshire Storm who are only in their second year in the RLC and had a resounding 42 -22 victory over Fife Lions in the playoff to reach the Grand Final, something that hasn't gone unnoticed by Carroll.

"We have had two good games against Ayrshire this year and although we have managed to beat them on both occasions I have no doubt that they will be up for their first final, you just have to look at their win over the Lions last weekend to see that. I'm sure both teams will make the most of the day and relish the opportunity."

Ayrshire Storm have had a superb run of form in the latter stages of the season to help them finish with a flourish and secure 3rd place over in the league all with wins over Fife Lions and a final league match against reigning champions Carluke Tigers, which the Storm narrowly won 30 - 26 before their playoff victory. Ayrshire Storm head coach Alex Bibby has led the Irvine based Storm since its conception in 2010 and is delighted that the squad have pulled together to reach the final.

"We had a difficult start to the season only winning two of the first six matches but the squad rallied towards the end of the season and that's the part of the season where it counts. The guys are really looking forward to the Grand Final, they have been working hard and it's their willingness to learn and hunger for success that has brought us this far. It wouldn't have been possible without that or the backing and support from Irvine Rugby Club."

Prior to the RLC Division 1 and Premier finals, Scotland's National Youth League squads will take to the fields. Falkirk Romans and Easterhouse Panthers will battle on the field for the Under 15 championship which is tipped to be a fantastic match after their performances over the summer where they have both beaten each other. Following that match it will be Aberdeen Spartans who have the task of trying to topple the undefeated Easterhouse Panthers in the Under 17 Grand Final.

For a discounted ticket bundle deal to the Finals Day, Under 18, Amateur international and professional international in October join our facebook group by clicking here
Alternatively, you can buy tickets on the day at the Stadium Reception.
Scotland Rugby League Finals Day - Saturday 6th August 2011, Scotstoun Stadium, Glasgow.

Under 15 - 12:00pm

Under 17 - 01:30pm

Division 1 - 03:15pm

Premier - 05:15pm

Prices: Adult: £5, Concession: £2, Under 12: FREE

INTERNATIONALS:

Saturday 13th August at Scotstoun Stadium, Glasgow.

12:30pm - Scotland Under 18 vs. England Colleges

02:00pm - Scotland ‘A' vs. Ireland ‘A'
Prices: Adult: £5, Concession £2, Under 12: FREE

This Saturday (6th August) Scotstoun Stadium in Glasgow will play host to four rugby league matches as the clubs battle for the silver wear and title of Scottish Champions.

Alternatively why not take advantage of our unique facebook offer which gives you discounted bundle tickets to the Finals day, Scotland 'A' vs. Ireland 'A' / Scotland under 18 vs. England Colleges and the professional Autumn international between Scotland vs. Ireland.

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RFL Announces extended Super League TV coverage

RFL ANNOUNCES EXTENDED SUPER LEAGUE TV COVERAGE ON SKY SPORTS

Five-year deal increases Super League income and takes partnership up to 21 years

The Super League and Sky Sports today announced the signing of a new broadcasting agreement to screen live Rugby League matches at the elite level until the end of 2016.

The new five-year agreement sees the Super League gain a record-breaking deal for exclusive rights to matches played during the 2012-2016 seasons spanning Super League XVII to Super League XXI, and taking the partnership with Sky Sports up to its 21st year.

"At a time when broadcast fees in sport have been under real pressure, this is a tremendous outcome for the sport of Rugby League," said RFL Chairman Richard Lewis.


"It clearly demonstrates the confidence that Sky Sports has in the game's current and future appeal and will give everyone involved in the sport a real boost.


"This is the first time we have sold domestic rights independently of international rights and so it bodes well for those sales which will be concluded either later this year or early next year."

The agreement with Sky Sports will see up to 70 Super League games being televised each season, including all Play Off matches and the end of season Grand Final at Old Trafford. In addition, live match coverage will be supported by additional programming every week including Boots 'N' All, Super League Super Men and Super League Extra Time.

Since 2001, television income for Rugby League has markedly increased. This growth has been matched by an increase in the number of fans attending matches from 1.2million in 2002 to 1.7million in 2010. More than one million young people received coaching over the last four years and in 2010 alone the number of adults participating in the sport increased by over 30,000.

"Our partnership with Sky Sports has been an important factor in the sustained growth of the game over more than a decade and we value the relationship we have with Sky and thank them for their continued support and excellent broadcast production values," added Lewis.


"The extended partnership from three to five years will enable us to plan for the future and tackle the issues we need to address in order to make Super League stronger."

Since the first Super League game was broadcast on Sky Sports in March 1996, nearly 3,000 matches have been screened covering some 424 rounds of weekly competition. Innovations during that time have included the video referee for difficult try decisions and events like the Grand Final and Magic Weekend, shown live in 3D this season.

Commenting on behalf of Sky Sports, Managing Director Barney Francis said:

"We are pleased to extend our partnership with the Rugby Football League for a further five years. Sky Sports has worked in tandem with the Rugby Football League as its principal media partner to showcase the game and support its development over the last sixteen years."

All live Super League coverage will be shown in HD and selected matches in 3D, and available to be watched by Sky subscribers with Sky Sports on mobile, online and tablet devices via Sky Go.

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Scotland Rugby League - Player Development Centre

Player Development Centre trials (north & central)
Trial dates announced

Scotland Rugby League are holding trials for selection for the Player Development Squad 2011/2012.

There will be two trials, one held in the central belt for those players living South of Dundee and one held in the North for those who live in Dundee or further North. Full details of both trials are below:

NORTH TRIALS

Saturday 17th September

University of Aberdeen

Balgownie Playing Fields, Aberdeen

AB22 8LX.

CENTRAL TRIALS

Saturday 24th September

Falkirk RFC

Sunnyside, Dorrator Road, Camelon, Falkirk

FK2 7YW.

Eligability age groups are the following:

To trial for the Scotland U15's squad your 15th birthday must fall on or between the
31-08-11 and the 01-09-12.

To trial for the Scotland U16's squad your 16th birthday must fall on or between the
31-08-11 and the 01-09-12.

PLEASER NOTE:

Scotland U15 players attending the trial must arrive at the venue at 11am to register, the trial match will commence at 12.00pm, all players must bring the following kit, shorts, socks and boots, players will be issued with a trial shirt for the match.

Scotland U16 players attending the trial must arrive at the venue at 12.30pm to register, the trial match will commence at 2.00pm, all players must bring the following kit, shorts, socks and boots, players will be issued with a trial shirt for the match.

If you require any further information please contact West Of Scotland Development Officer Susan Senter directly on :

Email, or alternatively by mobile on 07540636504.

We are getting closer and closer to the Grand Finals. This Saturday (6th August) Scotstoun Stadium in Glasgow will play host to four rugby league matches as the clubs battle for the silver wear and title of Scottish Champions.

Alternatively why not take advantage of our unique facebook offer which gives you discounted bundle tickets to the Finals day, Scotland 'A' vs. Ireland 'A' / Scotland under 18 vs. England Colleges and the professional Autumn international between Scotland vs. Ireland.

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Scotland Rugby League celebrates a £4,262.00 donation

Scotland Launch Rugby league Foundation Funding

Scotland Rugby League celebrates a £4,262.00 donation from the Rugby League Foundation (RLF) to support Scotland's player development centre.

The RLF have contributed towards the running costs of the Scotland Rugby League player development centre which will provide 60 Scotland based players with the opportunity to develop their rugby league skills and game knowledge in a performance environment run out of the World Class facility, Scotstoun Stadium in Glasgow.

Commenting on the funding Mark Senter, Scotland Development Manager said "We are delighted with the contribution made by the Rugby League Foundation to support our player development programme, The player development centre will enable us to educate our coaches to a higher level to deliver suitable programmes for developing players at Under 15, 16 and Under 18 age groups which will enhance their knowledge of core skills, lifestyle and strength and conditioning. This will provide a long term positive input into the National squads at Under 18, A, and full National Level".

Scotland Under 16's, pictured, already a product of this programme will be travelling to Germany on the 17^th August 2011 to play in a four way development tournament between, Scotland, Germany, Russia and Serbia.

The Scotland player development centre will start with trials on 24^th September 2011 with the main programme commencing in October 2011 and completing in May 2012.

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Scotland Rugby League Finals Day Line Up

Scotland Rugby League Finals Day Line Up

SCOTLAND RUGBY LEAGUE FINALS DAY 
(Please note change in kick off times)

It's the end of the domestic rugby league season and it's still all to play for as we approach the Grand Finals. This Saturday (6th August) Scotstoun Stadium in Glasgow will play host to four rugby league matches as the clubs battle for the silver wear and title of Scottish Champions.

Prices for the whole day: Adult £5 / Concession £2 / Under 12 FREE

Alternatively why not take advantage of our unique facebook offer which gives you discounted bundle tickets to the Finals day, Scotland 'A' vs. Ireland 'A' / Scotland under 18 vs. England Colleges and the professional Autumn international between Scotland vs. Ireland.

Under 15 Final: 12:00pm KO


Easterhouse Panthers vs. Falkirk Romans


The Under 15 final will see last year's runners up the Easterhouse Panthers strive to go one place better this year as they face the Falkirk Romans. Falkirk, in their inaugural year have already drawn and beaten last year's champions Victoria Knights and turned over the Panthers once but Easterhouse have gone almost unbeaten this year only dropping one match at the hands of their opponents this weekend. It's all to play for this weekend as the team's battle for the Scottish Champions title.

Under 17 Final: 01:30pm KO


Aberdeen Spartans vs. Easterhouse Panthers


Aberdeen Spartans in their inaugural year in the National Youth League will be hoping they can add to the rugby league silver wear in the North East after Aberdeen Grammar School won the Saltire Schools Rugby League Tournament. They will be facing a tough challenge as they take on Easterhouse Panthers, undefeated this year in the National Youth League and hoping to retain their title from the 2009 final.

RLC Division 1 Final: 03:15pm KO


Moray Titans vs. Aberdeen Warriors


A clash of the Northern Clubs - Moray Titans and Aberdeen Warriors, who are both in their first year of senior rugby league in Scotland, will meet one final time in 2011 for the big prize of division 1. The Warriors and Titans have met twice this year in the domestic season with Aberdeen running away victors in both matches but the Titans will be looking for their first win over the Aberdeen outfit and the opportunity to claim the Division 1 title.

RLC Premier Final: 05:15pm KO


Ayrshire Storm vs. Edinburgh Eagles


The biggest match of the day as the victors of this match will earn themselves not only the title of Scottish Champions but will be awarded a place in the National Playoffs and a coveted entry into the Carnegie Challenge Cup.
This year Ayrshire Storm will take on the undefeated Edinburgh Eagles in the final match of the season. Ayrshire have succumbed to the Eagles twice this season, the first in a tightly fought encounter in Irvine where the visitors stole a 6 -14 win and again at Union Park where the Eagles ran away 46 - 0 victors.
Storm who were plate runners up in 2010 after narrowly losing to Moray Eels will be hoping they can turn over the Eagles outfit as they did the Lions last weekend in their playoff match. Edinburgh who are making their 12th Grand Final appearance will be looking to secure their 8th Grand Final win in 14 years.

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Ayrshire Storm into Grand final

Ayrshire Storm to make debut in Scottish Grand Final.

 FIFE LIONS 22-42 AYRSHIRE STORM

Ayrshire Storm qualified for the Grand Final in considerable style with an impressive display at Harley Street.

The Storm will now battle Edinburgh Eagles at Scotstoun next Saturday for the title of Scottish rugby league champions, and while the Eagles will start as hot favourites to notch their eighth title in twelve Grand Final appearances, if the Storm can produce a similar performance they will have nothing to fear from their more illustrious opponents. For the Lions, on the other hand, it is back to the drawing board as their wait for their first Grand Final appearance since 2008 extends for another year.

The early signs were not promising for the visitors as the home side dominated possession and it was no surprise when they took the lead after 12 minutes, second row Colin Stewart eluding the defence on a penalty set to touch down under the posts. Thomas Murray added the conversion and the Lions led 6-0.

Shortly afterwards, however, came the first hint that it was to be the Storm's day. Paul Johnston sent the kick-off deep into the Lions half and the receiving player was deemed to have knocked on even though the ball went backwards out of his grasp. From the resulting set Nathan Murray was ruled to have scored in the right corner despite suspicions he had been tackled into touch. With no touch judge on hand to adjudicate, the referee was left with no alternative but to give the attacking side the benefit of the doubt. Johnston missed the difficult touchline conversion but the Storm were back in the game at 6-4.

The score appeared to open the game up and both sides had their moments before the Lions extended their lead on 25 minutes. Raymond Festorazzi was penalised for "afters" at a tackle situation and from the resulting set piece Niall Campbell went over in the right corner for the first try of what would ultimately be a hat-trick. Thomas Murray's conversion made it 12-4.

Within six minutes though the visitors were in the lead. The Lions were penalised on the set after the kick-off and after a patient spell of pressure Johnston burrowed over in the right corner for a try which he converted himself. The home side then shot themselves in the foot by sending the kick-off into touch on the full. The resulting set ended with Martin Sneddon crossing next to the posts. Again Johnston added the conversion, taking the score to 16-12 in the Storm's favour.

After this, a combination of indiscipline from the home side and good defence from the visitors ensured that there was no way back for the Lions before the break. Indeed, Nathan Murray thought he had extended the Storm's lead in first-half injury time with a try in the corner but the referee had spotted an injury to the home side's Andrew Brown in the build-up and blew for half time instead.

The Storm had a dream start to the second half when Gordon Powrie raced clear to notch their fourth try of the afternoon, Johnston goaling the conversion for a 22-12 lead.

They then presented the home side with a glorious chance to get back into the game, when in quick succession John Muir deflected the kick-off into touch deep in their half, and they were penalised for offside on the resulting set. But they produced an excellent defensive set to survive all six tackles and regain possession.

The Storm defence were to the fore again shortly afterwards when they had to withstand another set of tackles after once again being penalised. This proved crucial as Brian Hendry powered up the touchline to score in the left corner on 51 minutes. Johnston again missed a difficult touchline conversion.

The home side tried to respond and were unlucky when Stuart Tracey got a cruel bounce while attempting to gather a chip into the in-goal and the touchdown just eluded the diving Lions player. They paid for missing this chance minutes later when Hendry ran in behind the posts for his second try of the afternoon to give Johnston a straightforward conversion for 32-12.

Both sides were down to twelve men on 59 minutes when a melée between Powrie and home interchange Colin Wilson resulted in both players being sent to the sin-bin. Wilson in particular could have no complaints after being involved in a similar confrontation with Brian Hendry ten minutes earlier. The Lions were the beneficiaries of the original penalty and finally claimed the try they had been threatening when Niall Campbell scored his second of the afternoon from the resulting set. Thomas Murray was wide with the conversion, but the visitors' lead had been cut to a not yet unassailable 32-16 with twenty minutes to go.

The home side tried to exert more pressure on the visitors in a bid to get back in the game, but were unable to capitalise and on 67 minutes Nathan Murray made the game virtually safe when he raced clear to dot down under the posts, Johnston adding the extras. And after two further tries had gone begging after Tracey beat the would-be scorer to the touchdown on both occasions, Alastair Maxwell put the icing on the cake on 79 minutes with an unconverted try in the left corner to make it 42-16.

The Lions had the last word in injury time when Campbell completed his hat-trick and Thomas Murray converted, but the day ultimately belonged to the visitors.

Ayrshire take on Edinburgh Eagles in the Scotland Rugby League Premier Grand Final on Saturday 6th August at Scotstoun Stadium in Glasgow - 5:15pm kick off

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FIFE LIONS - J Campbell; N Campbell, S Cessford, K Dalglish, S Doidge;
T Murray, G Queen; J Smith, A Brown, C Stewart, G Wallace, R Thomson, R Bryce. Interchanges: K Perrow, C Wilson.

AYRSHIRE STORM - G Powrie; N Murray, A Maxwell, J Muir, S Tracey;
D Crangle, P Johnston; B Hendry, J Marshall, N Savage, R Festorazzi, S Rodgers,
R Filander. Interchanges: M Sneddon, S Christie.
 
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