When Scotland took on England in the Six Nations match at the DAM Health Stadium – now the Hive – in late March 2022, 3,988 people were in attendance.
Fast forward just over two years and this Saturday coming, April 13, there will be 7,774 at Hive Stadium for the 2024 Guinness Women’s Six Nations match between the two sides.
That is a sell-out and breaks the home tournament record for a Scotland game set just a week and a half ago when 5,601 were in Edinburgh to see the round two match against France.
Doubling the crowd in two years is a massive achievement and lots of people can take credit for that, but all the credit should go to the players and coaches.
Scotland captain Rachel Malcolm said: “We are so proud to have sold out Hive Stadium for our final home game of the Six Nations. The growing crowds at our games over the last two years have meant a great deal to us, our fans really do bring us so much encouragement on game day.
“Whilst undoubtedly this is a special moment for our team, it’s also very special for women’s sport in Scotland and it goes to show how much interest and growth there is in female sport.
“We hope that we can put on a performance this weekend everyone can be proud of and I cannot thank our fans enough for their support.”
Donna Kennedy, Scotland’s record cap holder with 115 appearances, said: “I am absolutely thrilled to see such incredible support for Scotland Women. This sell-out crowd is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches both past and present, as well as the unwavering support of our sport’s passionate fans.
“Myself and a number of other former Scotland players will be along and we are immensely proud to be part of this momentous occasion and look forward to enjoying the game at the Hive Stadium.
“No matter who you are supporting on the day, everyone is in for a fantastic event. Both sides play amazingly, so it will be a great spectacle for the sport.”
Thanks to N50 Photography for the image
During the Guinness Women’s Six Nations period through to the end of April, GH Media will be covering all aspects of women’s rugby in Scotland via reports, features and interviews…
Thanks to those who have made this possible and if any companies/individuals are keen to support this work too, please email gary@gh-media.co.uk