The first Blues match of 2017 pits Bedford against Yorkshire Carnegie in the British & Irish Cup this Saturday with Mike Rayer’s men needing a big win to keep knockout stage hopes alive (KO 3pm).

The second half of the season has started well with a superb and vital last second win versus Jersey on Boxing Day and a narrow loss, but good performance against leaders London Irish on New Year’s Eve.

Bedford will need to continue that good form to overcome the league’s second placed team, who are also in the running to make the Quarter Finals with only the winner keeping the dream alive after.

Ealing Trailfinders top the Pool 5 group with 16 points ahead of the Leeds based side who sit on 11 points with Blues and Newport Gwent Dragons back on 7 points and with an away draw in the knockout stages still possible.

Therefore, we need another strong 16th man out in force to rally behind the Blues and make some noise on a cold afternoon at Goldington Road. Click here to buy tickets now.

There is plenty in store off the pitch to keep you entertained ahead of kick off and after the final whistle. As always we urge supporters to pick up a match programme on entry to the ground and head up to the Eagle Bar to sample this week’s Guest Ale; Brain’s SA, the national ale of Wales. Let’s hope Mikey can celebrate with a pint post-match.

Marquee hospitality is now sold out with a fantastic Season Ticket turnout and a special Director’s welcome and games arranged courtesy of match sponsors Dovecote Park. If you’ve missed out, why not head to Nos’s Nosh for pre-match grub or head to one of the bars around the ground for the early Champions Cup kick off between Northampton Saints and Castres on Sky Sports.

As the teams run out, please give both sets of players and this week’s SSG Guard of Honour from Westfield School along with the Bedford Bear, a loud cheer to warm us all up in this must-win encounter against the Yorkshiremen.

Post-match stick around in the Blues Marquee with everyone welcome to enjoy live music with house musician Mark Calder and the Anglian Fasteners Man of the Match presentation with MC Sam Roberts.

For those wanting to review the match and enjoy expert analysis, head upstairs to the Eagle Bar for live reaction from players and coaches in the Michael R Peters Final Whistle. The late Champions Cup kick off will also be on the TV screens between Glasgow Warriors and Munster with Blues graduate Ali Price expected to start for the hosts.

One place you must visit this match day is the Blues Club Shop with a special January Sale about to launch. Check website for details and if you missed something off your Christmas list, don’t panic, visit the Club Shop before, half-time or after the match to check out the new leisurewear range and grab yourself a late bargain present.

Season Ticket holders: Please remember this match is included in your Season Ticket card and you do not need to buy a ticket. There is also plenty of availability in the Eagle Stand for your Guest Pass.

Buy tickets online in advance and save a massive £4.00 on all adult tickets, click here to buy.