Bishop's Castle excluded from rugby cup competitions

Bishop's Castle have been excluded from this season's national rugby cup competitions – after failing to fulfil a fixture last term.

Castle, relegated to Midlands Four West (North), were scheduled to play in the RFU Junior Vase.

But officials have booted them out as punishment for last year's late withdrawal at the second round stage of the Senior Vase.

The south Shropshire side failed to fulfil their tie at Upton-on-Severn because a big player shortage had left them devoid of a front row.

"We expected it after pulling out last year," said club spokesman Glyn Morris.

Younger

"We had a tough time last season but we've got a few younger lads coming in and we're hoping that being at a lower level will mean they can get more games to suit them.

"If you are being thrown into games where you are losing 60-0 then it does put people off. We weren't too disappointed to be relegated."

Shropshire's hopes in the Junior Vase will instead now be carried by Market Drayton, Telford Hornets and Clee Hill – who will launch their campaigns with first round matches on September 24.

Drayton and Telford have away ties against Aldridge and Birmingham Barbarians respectively, while Clee will play host to Essington.

Cleobury Mortimer, who were beaten Junior Vase finalists in 2006, will this season compete in the Senior Vase after their promotion to Midlands Three West (North).

And they have been given a boost in the draw, with a bye straight through to the second round.

Shrewsbury have been given similar fortune with a bye to the second round of the Intermediate Cup but Bridgnorth will be involved in the first round, with a home tie against Kidderminster Carolians.