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REPORT | Blues retain Baker Brothers Cup
Bedford Blues made a thumping start to their 2026-27 campaign by running in 12 tries to defeat Cambridge 76-5 at Goldington Road, retaining the Baker Brothers Cup in-front of 2,012 spectators.
It was a useful exercise for Mike Rayer's men who were able to head out onto the hallowed turf for the first time in the new season, 83 days after the Elior Champ Rugby Final back in May.
Bigger challenges will lie ahead, none more so than when PREM Rugby heavyweights, Bath come to town on Friday 11th September in the final run out before league action gets underway the weekend after in a re-run of that final.
Lots of positives to take including a remarkable debut for Summer recruit Marcus Kershaw who not only scooped the CMC Technology Group Man of the Match, but scored four tries and looked menacing whenever he had ball in hand.
Kershaw was one of six debutants on this day - this being a capped fixture - and the likes of Will Davies-King and Dan Eckersley were important in ensuring the lineout and scrum were functioning throughout.
Ben Dufficy, a second half replacement, kicked over his first points in Blues colours; while guest appearance makers Raff Hewitt and Ollie Broughton didn't look out of place under the Friday Night Lights.
Louis James celebrated his 50th appearance and welcoem return from injury with a brace, Tui Uru also scored twice, while Joey Conway, James Fish, Lucas Titherington and George Worth all crossed the whitewash.
There were moments where Blues had to show their defensive capabilities, particularly in a sustained spell towards the end of the first half where Cambridge did everything but score, and Uru saw the rarity of a pre-season yellow card when trying to hold back the tide.
Attentions quickly turn to a trip to the Lake District next week for a team bonding opportunity, before it's back to Goldington Road to face one of the toughest teams in English rugby. Join us at Goldington Road with tickets available by clicking here.
