HAVING made the move from the traditional timing of August and pre-season in 2011, Kelso has again made a change to the format of their tournament.
They have opted for a 12-team event with the teams split into four groups of three teams. This is not a brand new venture for Kelso as they have already tried this format back in the 70s at the time of their centenary season.
Each team is now guaranteed two games and with only 12 teams in the draw the club hopes that it will do away with the late call-offs which are becoming the bane of the sevens organiser’s life.
The tournament is again sponsored by a local firm Maxwell Motors who are in the second year of a three-year partnership.
Many local companies and individuals are looking forward to a day at the sevens as there are more than 300 sponsorship packages taken. In fact, that side of the sevens is sold out.
The 12 teams include nine Borders sides, Watsonians and Edinbugh Accies and the Dansk Vikings – providing the tides are right and there is no turbulent weather on their way across the North Sea – making their second trip to the Borders, having played at Hawick and Berwick last year.
At present, the form team on the circuit is Jed-Forest who have appeared in five finals and head up the Kings of the Sevens table. They have to contend with Gala in their group, who now have the chance to turn their minds to the short game after their trophy-chasing ventures over the past few weeks.
Selkirk has gone off the boil in sevens terms this season so far, but the skills are all there and it may just be a matter of time before they click. They have to contend with the Vikings and Watsonians.
Melrose are the holders of the Kings of the Sevens as well as the Kelso trophy and they always produce a tough squad. Their group includes Edinburgh Accies who have made a determined effort on the circuit this season with a young team.
Kelso played well at Gala sevens, but have not covered themselves in glory since then, although they do not seem too far away from being a successful team. They are against Hawick, who must be one of the most unpredictable sides right now.
As well as the pre-booked hospitality packages, there is hog roast on offer as well as other opportunities for spectators to avail themselves of refreshments throughout the afternoon.
There is the usual game between Kelso Cougars and Jed Minis in the gap between the semis and the final.
The first tie is at 1.30pm, with the final timed for 6pm.