After a hard fought season, local rivals Manchester and Salford Rugby League finished on level points at the top of the league. The clubs have shared this season’s top honours so far, Salford earning promotion but Manchester winning the BUCS cup just last week, defeating Salford in the final.
All this means that there could not be more at stake this coming Friday, for what will be the biggest Varsity match in recent memory.
Head coach Matt Valentine understands the task ahead of his team, but has confidence in his players, “the lads deserved to win the cup final last week but we are expecting Salford to come back this week even stronger and looking for revenge. We will match fire with fire on Friday, it’s going to be a great game. It’s a local derby and bragging rights are up for grabs.”
Having played each other twice already this year, Salford and Manchester have claimed one win apiece, Varsity is the decider. Captain Adam Heal reflected on the deciding match, “we want to prove we are the best team in our league, the only way to do that is to beat Salford again this Friday. With your support, we’re confident we can make the University of Manchester proud.”
Manchester regional arena, part of the Etihad campus, is the new venue for the match. One of the biggest crowds ever is expected for this year’s varsity, but your Rugby team needs all the support from the university it can get to help them defeat Salford.
Tickets are still available, and includes coach travel to and from the match from the Armitage Centre, as well as free entry to the official varsity after party at 256 Fallowfield! 256 will have drinks offers all night.
Coaches leave the Armitage at 6pm and return at 9.30pm for the after party.
Tickets can be bought here.
University of Manchester vs University of Salford Varsity 2018
Friday, 16th March, 19.30 kick-0ff
Manchester Regional Arena