Struth Celebrates Unprecedented Turnout at the Epic 1872 Cup Showdown!

Saturday’s derby turnout significantly surpassed the former Edinburgh Rugby and Scottish rugby club attendance record from the prior season of 37,904, highlighting the appeal of the festive derby and affirming its significance as a key event in both the club’s season and the city’s Hogmanay festivities.

“It was a fantastic day for everyone associated with the club,” remarked Struth. “Saturday was the culmination of extensive effort and dedication behind the scenes, and witnessing it all come together with such an astonishing turnout from the wonderful Edinburgh Rugby supporters was genuinely remarkable. I cannot express enough gratitude to everyone for uniting in such a way – it fills me with immense pride and humility to be part of this club.

“Seeing over 40,000 fans supporting the team at Scottish Gas Murrayfield, amidst the noise and vibrance of the team’s entrance, was a moment that will be treasured in our memories. Moreover, to also observe our fans relishing the street party vibe outside the stadium, with bands, DJs, carnival games, and numerous other attractions.”

Over 40,000 fans gathered at Scottish Gas Murrayfield.

On the pitch, the team rebounded from the defeat in the first leg of the 1872 Cup at Hampden with a brave and determined performance which saw Pierre Schoeman muscle through late in the game to secure all four points, propelling Edinburgh into seventh position in the BKT United Rugby Championship and into the playoff spots.

Struth proceeded: “The team exhibited all the required bravery and pride in the jersey that I am aware they possess, bouncing back from the defeat in the first leg.

“Saturday’s display encapsulates the essence of our squad and provides us with a foundation to build upon. We upheld our intensity throughout the entire 80 minutes, and I was ecstatic for our coaches, management, and players that we gained the well-deserved triumph.”

As the aftereffects of Saturday’s remarkable day settle, and with the club’s attendance record once again shattered, Struth remains optimistic that the 1872 Cup derby continues to possess vast potential for expansion, with its popularity rising year after year.

He stated: “40,000 supporters at Scottish Gas Murrayfield is an extraordinary milestone that lays a robust groundwork for the game in 2025. We are already investigating avenues to enhance the derby matchday experience for our supporters.

Struth added: “I sincerely wish to express my gratitude to all of the Edinburgh Rugby fans for their tremendous and steadfast support throughout 2024. I recognize it hasn’t always been simple, but Saturday’s win provided a fantastic closure to the year.

“I would like to extend my best wishes for a joyful and prosperous New Year to all our fans, community, and partners as it approaches. Here’s to more significant victories in 2025 – let’s continue working together to make this club the best it can be, on and off the pitch.”