A RARE opportunity to test themselves against a team from the southern hemisphere has been snapped up by Tynedale rugby players.

The team from Corbridge is eagerly anticipating the arrival of Argentinian side Club Atletico Ferrorcarril General San Martin for a one-off game which will take place under the floodlights at Jed Forest, in Scotland, on Wednesday, February 15.

Tynedale’s second team the Raiders will go head-to-head with San Martin as part of their playing tour of Europe, organised by Corbridge-based company rugby tour specialists Sky High Tours.

The Buenos Aires side, who will bring 50 players with them, have games scheduled in Scotland, Dublin, Paris and Barcelona, and have arranged the game as part of their stay in Edinburgh.

They had hoped to play a team from the Scottish capital but, due to the country’s league calendar, first teams north of the border were unable to commit.

So in stepped Tynedale who will offer good competition to the South American side, as the second team schedule usually starts thinning out from February.

Sky High owner Richie Gledson, a player with the Raiders, said: “San Martin are travelling throughout Europe and were looking for a competitive game, and Tynedale will be able to provide that.

“There’s a lot of people talking about the game, and it’s a one-off game as there’s not many Argentinian teams come through. It’s the first time we have had a team from South America on one of our tours, although we have had them from North America, Africa and India.

“Putting my business hat on, we’re looking to be the go-to buys for teams outside of Europe and we were contacted through the website and wanted us to do their tour.”

The game will kick off at 7.30pm, and there will be coach transport provided for players and supporters from Tynedale Park and Newcastle. People wishing to travel with the club can contact them directly, or Sky High Sports.