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MATCH FOCUS | Blues Women in knockout action on Sunday
Join us on Sunday as knockout rugby returns to Goldington Road as Bedford Blues Women host Chinnor Kites for the first time in the Round of 16 of the Community Plate (Gates Open 12pm; Kick Off 2pm).
Big Game Preview
After going seven from seven in league action, Eddie Rennell’s side will hope to translate that form into knockout competition with this the start of their Community Plate adventure, joining at the R16 stage following a bye last time out.
Defeat to Buckingham Swans in the Cup version of this competition has seen them into the Plate, but they are one of the form sides heading into it.
Chinnor Kites, competing in their first season at this level, haven’t had things quite as plain sailing in 25/26 but will hope a change from league action gives them the opportunity to find some form and a first success of the campaign.
Team News
Rennell makes eight changes to the squad that contested the first fixture of 2026 two weeks ago, affording more members of the squad important minutes ahead of what is going to be a hectic concluding final few months of the campaign.
He is able to again call upon a full replacements bench this week with fantastic availability across the squad, meaning they can make the full set of changes permitted during the game. Therefore, expect lots of switches across the 80 minutes to keep our resident PA Announcer on his toes on Sunday.
So Far This Season
As highlighted above, the start to the season has been incredibly strong from a league perspective, with a maximum 35 points from those available in Blues Women’s second season at this level.
They’ve managed to rack up a whole host of points from their contests so far this term, while also keeping those conceded to minimal levels. With a strong #BluesFamily support behind them, they’ll be hoping to maintain their unbeaten start to 2026.
What follows Sunday’s clash?
Should Blues Women progress to the Quarter Finals, the last eight tie would be scheduled on the weekend of 1st March, meaning they’d be playing for six successive weeks at the end of February and through March.
It is, as yet, unclear who would be a potential opponent, or whether it would be home or away. Stay tuned to the social media channels for updates as they arrive, should it be a positive result this weekend.
Season Ticket holders go free!
For the third season in succession, Bedford Blues Season Ticket holders are again entitled to free entry to all Bedford Blues Women home matches. Simply bring your card or QR code with you to the gate for admission.
Tickets are just £2.50 when bought online, a saving of 50% compared to a fiver at the gate. Head online for the cheapest rates simply by clicking here and support the team as they venture out on home soil for the first time this year.
The Scrum Bar will be the only venue open to the public to grab a pre and post-match pint with all the usual favourites on offer – food will also be available from the adjoining serving hatch!
Only the Apron Seats within The M&J Group Stand will be in use on Sunday, operated on a first come, first served basis; alongside pitch side standing room.
