Annual Spud Cup — Gainsborough RUFC vs Scunthorpe RUFC

25/07/2026

A day of rugby, remembrance, and community spirit

The Annual Spud Cup returns this year as Gainsborough RUFC and Scunthorpe RUFC come together for a special memorial fixture honouring Steven “Spud” Daniel, a player who proudly wore the colours of both clubs during his rugby days. The event stands as a celebration of his life, his contribution to the sport, and the lasting impact he made on teammates, friends, and the wider rugby community.

The day begins with family activities from 13:00, followed by the memorial match kicking off at 15:15. The fixture remains a friendly, but its meaning runs far deeper than the scoreboard. It is a moment for both clubs to unite, reflect, and celebrate the values Spud embodied — commitment, camaraderie, and the joy of playing the game.

❤️ Remembering Steve “Spud” Daniels

Steven Daniel — known to everyone as Spud — was a proud member of both Gainsborough RUFC and Scunthorpe RUFC during his playing days. His presence on and off the pitch left a lasting impact across both clubs, shaping friendships, strengthening team spirit, and embodying the values that make grassroots rugby so special.

The Annual Spud Cup was created to honour his memory and ensure his legacy continues to bring people together. Each year, players, supporters, families, and members of both clubs unite to celebrate the man behind the nickname, reflecting on the joy, humour, and commitment he brought into every environment he stepped into.

This remembrance also connects deeply with our senior men’s charity, Andy’s Man Club. Their message — that it’s always okay to talk — sits at the heart of this event. With groups running in both Gainsborough and Scunthorpe, Andy’s Man Club provides vital support for men across our communities, encouraging open conversation and reminding us that no one has to face their struggles alone. Representatives from Andy’s Man Club will also be present on the day, offering support, information, and a welcoming space for anyone who needs it.

🎉 Family Fun Day

Alongside the memorial match, the event features a full Family Fun Day designed to bring the community together. Activities include:

Dance performance

Local stall holders

Face painting

Food and drink available in the bar

Music throughout the afternoon

The day is built not only around rugby, but around connection — families, supporters, and players sharing time together in the spirit of community.

🏆 The Match

The fixture between Gainsborough RUFC and Scunthorpe RUFC is a friendly memorial match, played with pride and respect. While competitive in nature, the heart of the game lies in honouring Spud and celebrating the unity between the two clubs he once called home.

Both sides approach the match with the same intention: to play hard, support each other, and remember a teammate who meant so much to so many.

📍 Event Details

Date: 29th August 2026Family Fun Day Start: 13:00Kick‑off: 15:15Venue: The Venue, North Warren Road, Gainsborough, DN21 2TUClubs: Gainsborough RUFC vs Scunthorpe RUFC