Challenge Cup: Cheetahs v Ulster to be played behind closed doors at new venue due to weather conditions.
The highly anticipated Challenge Cup fixture between the Toyota Cheetahs and Ulster Rugby has been rescheduled to take place in a completely different location, with fans left disappointed after it was confirmed that the match would be played behind closed doors. The game was initially set to go ahead in Amsterdam at 15:15 on Sunday, but the Netherlands capital's NRCA Stadium has been deemed unplayable due to sub-zero temperatures.
As a result, the fixture has now been relocated to Dukes Rugby Club in s-Hertogenbosch, with kick-off scheduled for 13:00 GMT. While this move ensures that the match can still go ahead, it also means that supporters who had made travel arrangements to attend will be unable to do so.
European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR) has confirmed that the match will indeed take place behind closed doors, although officials stress that they are continuing to monitor weather conditions in the lead-up to the fixture. In a statement on the implications of this decision, Ulster Rugby explained that the team is seeking further clarification from tournament organizers regarding the impact of this move and what it means for fans.
This Challenge Cup game represents an opportunity for both teams to test their skills against each other in a key European competition, but unfortunately for supporters, the decision to play behind closed doors will mean missing out on the excitement.
The highly anticipated Challenge Cup fixture between the Toyota Cheetahs and Ulster Rugby has been rescheduled to take place in a completely different location, with fans left disappointed after it was confirmed that the match would be played behind closed doors. The game was initially set to go ahead in Amsterdam at 15:15 on Sunday, but the Netherlands capital's NRCA Stadium has been deemed unplayable due to sub-zero temperatures.
As a result, the fixture has now been relocated to Dukes Rugby Club in s-Hertogenbosch, with kick-off scheduled for 13:00 GMT. While this move ensures that the match can still go ahead, it also means that supporters who had made travel arrangements to attend will be unable to do so.
European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR) has confirmed that the match will indeed take place behind closed doors, although officials stress that they are continuing to monitor weather conditions in the lead-up to the fixture. In a statement on the implications of this decision, Ulster Rugby explained that the team is seeking further clarification from tournament organizers regarding the impact of this move and what it means for fans.
This Challenge Cup game represents an opportunity for both teams to test their skills against each other in a key European competition, but unfortunately for supporters, the decision to play behind closed doors will mean missing out on the excitement.
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Can't they just get it together so we can have proper rugby games?! Anyway, I feel bad for the fans who booked flights and hotel rooms thinking they could attend this match. Dukes Rugby Club is gonna be a tiny venue, btw - hope the teams can still give their all despite the crowds (or lack thereof). Behind closed doors just sounds like an excuse to the tournament organizers... come on, let's be real! 
... The weather conditions in Amsterdam are pretty ridiculous, sub-zero temps? That's just crazy! But at the same time, Dukes Rugby Club in s-Hertogenbosch is a bit of a trek for Ulster fans who were looking forward to cheering them on. I get why EPCR and Ulster Rugby had to make this call, safety first and all that 
... But playing behind closed doors? That's just so weird 
... It's like the excitement of the match is being sucked out of it for everyone involved.
That's insane! And now they're moving it to s-Hertogenbosch... I get that safety first, but still 
. Behind closed doors is just so... meh 
. Can't we just have a quick weather check and reschedule for another day? 
and who knows, maybe fans can still catch some highlights online 
? anyway, can imagine how bummer it must be for supporters to miss out on live action 
️... but i guess its all about making the most of the situation 
!
And playing behind closed doors is just not the same as being there with all the other fans cheering and chanting... it's like they're taking away a part of the experience 
. Anyway, I hope the teams can still put on a good show despite everything, and that Ulster Rugby gets some answers from EPCR about what's going on 
.
I hope EPCR and Ulster Rugby sort out their act, it's a shame for the fans.
. Amsterdam's NRCA Stadium is like a frozen tundra right now 
A slip-up on the ice, a broken bone, or even worse... it's just not worth it. The EPCR and Ulster Rugby are doing their best to find an alternative solution, so let's give 'em credit for that 
It's not like they're gonna let anyone in anyway. I feel bad for all the fans who were hyped up to go watch this game. Dukes Rugby Club is some kinda new venue? Never heard of it. Hope they can get the weather sorted out before the next match...