Bridgend Blue Bulls reveal Covid difficulties ahead of Challenge Cup tie

Welsh champions Bridgend Blue Bulls have admitted it has been difficult to advertise their Challenge Cup tie due to Covid restrictions in Wales.

The Blue Bulls welcome the Royal Navy to Pyle RFC on Friday in round one the Challenge Cup. However, they are only allowed 50 spectators due to current Government guidelines.

In rules announced on Boxing Day, only 50 people can attend outdoor community sporting events. Since then, professional teams have been having to play behind closed doors.

It is the first time a Welsh community side has been drawn at home in the Challenge Cup since 2015. Valley Cougars were drawn at home to Leicester Storm and won 27-22. However, they were then beaten by West Yorkshire outfit Oulton Raiders in the second round.

Bridgend’s game against the Navy will be the first match of the 2022 Challenge Cup. The winners of the tie will face either Orrell St James or the Army at the end of the month.

Bridgend ” frustrated and disappointed” they can’t have more spectators

Blue Bulls team manager Leon Welsby told Love Rugby League: “Preparations are going well, good training numbers.

“Our home ground of Pyle RFC have been supporting us by updating facilities at the club to give the Navy a very warm Welsh welcome.

“The situation of the spectators is that we are only allowed 50. We believe that this has had a negative impact as we have not been able to advertise the game as much as we would have liked as we are afraid of disappointing attendees once the restriction is reached.

“This is the first time we have managed a home draw and we are frustrated and disappointed that we can’t have all our supporters there but we fully appreciate why we have restrictions and respect any decisions that promote the safety of others within our community.”

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