The team based the decision on a successful pilot test at the end of last season that saw them win all three matches against Ebbw Vale, Cardiff and Llanelli. The views of season ticket supporters were also taken into account with fans preferring one dedicated venue for all home games. Edinburgh Rugby played the majority of games at Myreside last season, however because of commitments by George Watson's College, the team required to find a new home capable of top class rugby.
Edinburgh Leisure manages the Meadowbank facility and is keen to work with the professional rugby outfit to create opportunities to attract more people to both the stadium and the range of sports on offer.
The Edinburgh Rugby team now knows that they will play home matches at one venue for the entire season. Players and the management team have praised the facilities at Meadowbank with the playing surface being viewed as one of the best in professional rugby and suiting Edinburgh's flowing play.
Ian Rankin, Team Manager, Edinburgh Rugby, said, "The squad enjoyed the experience and received a great response from the growing support. With the quality of opposition due to play Edinburgh this season we look forward to attracting more people from the city and surrounding areas to watch us in the Heineken Cup and the new Celtic and Scottish League competitions. George Watson's College were excellent hosts at Myreside however this move provides a stability and structure for the team that will also extend the roots of Edinburgh Rugby to a wider audience."
The first game for "The Gunners" this season will be a friendly against PARJER PEN SHIELD winners side Sale Sharks on 16 August (ko 7.30pm). Edinburgh will then entertain Newcastle Falcons on 23 August with the team's first match in the new Celtic League taking place against Swansea on 30 August (ko 7.30pm). Ticket prices for the new season will be confirmed in the near future.
Edinburgh Rugby are drawn in Pool 5 of this year's Heineken Cup where their opponents will be Toulouse, Newport and London Irish.
