This weekend sees the return of cup rugby to Milton Keynes, as Bletchley welcome Vipers RFC to Manor Fields in the opening round of the RFU Counties 1 Cup. The clash kicks off at 3.00pm on Saturday and is set to provide an afternoon of intensity, physicality, and drama.

Strong Opposition in Vipers
Vipers travel in fine form, building on the foundations of an impressive 2023/24 campaign that saw them secure 2nd place in Counties 1 Midlands East (South). Over the course of their league season, they won 15 of their 22 matches, establishing themselves as one of the division’s most consistent and competitive sides. They’ve carried that quality into the new season, opening with back-to-back victories that underline their strength and ambition. They will be heading to The Manor full of confidence, eager to test themselves on the cup stage and determined to spoil the party.

This match also carries an added edge as it will be the first-ever meeting between Bletchley and Vipers. With no previous history between the clubs, there is fresh ground to be broken and plenty of intrigue as both sides look to set the tone in this new rivalry.

Momentum with Bletchley
For Bletchley, however, this tie is both a challenge and an opportunity. The squad come into the game buoyed by last weekend’s impressive bonus-point win on the road at Bicester, a performance that highlighted the squad’s grit, ambition, and ability to execute under pressure.

With that victory fresh in the memory, the boys will be looking to harness that momentum and channel it into a strong cup run – one that reflects the hunger and togetherness growing within the group.

The Manor Factor
Cup rugby is always different. The margins are fine, every mistake is magnified, and every chance must be taken. The coaches have reinforced the importance of discipline, accuracy, and playing with a relentless edge. The players know that to overcome a side of Vipers’ calibre, they will need to match their tempo, meet their physicality head-on, and show the same resilience that has already delivered results this season.

This is where The Manor truly matters. Bletchley has long prided itself on making Manor Fields a fortress – a place where travelling sides know they will face not only the XV on the pitch but the noise, passion, and presence of the crowd behind them. With Vipers arriving in strong form, the boys will need every ounce of support to lift them when it counts most.

Match Details

Bletchley vs Vipers
RFU Counties 1 Championship Cup
Saturday, 3.00pm kick-off
Manor Fields, MK2 2HX

We’re calling on all club members, VP’s, families, and friends to come down this weekend and get behind the boys. Bring your voices, wear your colours, and help turn The Manor into the fortress it is known for. With your support, Bletchley will look to take a big step forward in their cup journey.