London Skolars should have some inside knowledge on the opposition when they run out against Harlequins Rugby League in Friday’s ETF Securities Capital Challenge (1.45pm KO) at the historic Artilery Garden of the HAC in the heart of the City of London.

Both clubs have been quick to take advantage of the dual registration system introduced by the RFL and Harlequins squad members Lamont Bryan, Ben Jones, Luke May, Jamie O’Callaghan and Dave Williams hold dual registration for both clubs, and at least two of them are expected to line up for Skolars on Friday.

The prospect of the dual registered players keen to impress both coaches will bring an added dimension to what is already set to be an extremely competitive game. Both teams have lost preseason games to the weather, making the Capital Challenge their one and only match before their respective seasons’ kick off.

The fixture also marks the first game in charge for Skolars head coach, James Massara: “I’m looking forward to what the Harlequins players will bring to the squad. They’re Super League players with great attitudes and will set a benchmark for the other players to aspire to. I’ve watched this fixture for years and have always really enjoyed it, so cannot wait to be involved on Friday.”

Harlequins head coach, Brian McDermott, said of the event, “Rather than seeing our fringe players only getting a brief run out, we can see how they have got on in preseason against players who potentially hold their future shirt. It will produce a very interesting contest. We hope to get a lot out of Friday’s match. With the cancelled games we have had this pre season, we need to get a good hit out against Skolars.”

Speaking about the rare chance to play rugby league in the heart of London, McDermott added, “I reckon it’s the most bizarre place in the world to play a game of Rugby League. It’s along the same lines as bursting into the Houses of Parliament and playing cricket using the Speaker’s chair as stumps. It’s a great day out and works really well.”

Tickets are still available for sale and will be on sale at the gate on Friday, but the capacity is limited so please hurry. Tickets are £15 and can be bought by calling 0208 888 8488.

The ETF Securities Capital Challenge - Skolars v Quins – takes place on Friday 22nd January, kickoff 1.45 p.m at the Honourable Artillery Company (HAC), Old Street EC1Y 2BQ.

Now that's marketing!

More like PR. Or lies, depending on your viewpoint.

This match has the potential to be bigger than the Grand Final by the sounds of it.

Enjoy everyone.

dave i love you mate!

Are you not bothering Listy?

Alas no, I have an exam that day. Or else I'd be there in a shot, obviously.

To be honest, this is the first season that the Skolars signings, including a NZ Warrior centre, fills me with more enthusiasm and hope than the Quins. I would fancy a bet on them for the play-offs.

Had a early liquid lunch have we?

No, but I will if you are paying!

Are the gates really not opening until 1.30pm? On previous occasions the gates were open much earlier.

Doesn't it KO at 13;45

yes there is a junior game at 12

Weather looks miserable right now, and the worst of the rain seems likely to hit Central London around lunchtime. Waterproof coat & boots would appear to be the order of the day.

Do the stands not have covers?

There aren't any stands. The pitch is roped off. You stand behind the rope. Wear your wellies.

Gutted I can't go. Too much work on

lol

I think that was a whoosh moment for The Curtism...

Someone better provide score updates.

I love the use of the term "epic" to describe this fixture. For God's sake, it's a pre-season fixture to be attended by around 600 people in a city where less than 1% of the population will actually be aware that it is taking place, and turned out to be incredibly one sided as a Super League side are playing a Championship One side. What exactly is "epic" about a 50+ margin of victory??!

i actually think the day was massive and probably one of the best rl events i have attended

I enjoyed it in a quirky sort of way, and didn't expect anything more, but the key factor for any normal person is surely the actual match, i.e. a close match. In that respect it was a non-event - a glorified attack vs. defence training session.

Sorry curty!! Is that 1-0??

What was the crowd? Venue looks interesting!

637 military stadium.