Richmond head to Bedford this Friday for a Boxing Day clash with Bedford Blues, as Round 12 of the Champ brings a 3pm kick-off at a sold-out Goldington Road. Few fixtures capture the festive spirit quite like Bedford on Boxing Day, and a packed ground will provide a powerful backdrop against one of the league’s most established and dangerous sides.

Bedford arrive in strong form, fresh from an impressive victory over Worcester Warriors last weekend. Sitting third in the league, the Blues have built momentum through a direct and effective attacking approach, driven by powerful ball carriers and a willingness to challenge gain lines throughout the match. On home turf, and with continuity on their side, they will take confidence from both recent results and the occasion itself.

Richmond, meanwhile, make the trip with focus and intent. Boxing Day rugby offers a unique stage, and the group are keen to embrace the challenge presented by a sold-out venue and a high-quality opponent. While results have been hard-earned in recent weeks, performances continue to show development and a clear commitment to the process.

That intent is reflected in the numbers. Richmond’s defensive resilience has been a hallmark of the campaign, ensuring contests remain fiercely competitive. In attack, the side continues to rank among the Champ’s leading teams for offloads and defenders beaten, underlining a willingness to play with ambition and stretch opposition defences when opportunities arise.

With the scale of the challenge matched by the ambition within the group, Richmond travel to Bedford determined to deliver a performance befitting the Boxing Day occasion and one that can help drive momentum into the second half of the season.