South Shields RFC open their 2026/27 pre‑season with a home clash against Seghill RFC — a fixture that promises intensity, physicality, and a first real look at how both squads have shaped up after a summer of hard work.

After a four‑week training camp, South Shields RFC return to Brinkburn with renewed energy and a fresh squad dynamic. Their pre‑season schedule confirms Seghill as the first opponents this Saturday.

South Shields v Seghill is a familiar rivalry within the fixture list known for fast, expansive rugby and a never‑say‑die attitude from both sides.

South Shields’ summer has been about rebuilding, conditioning, and sharpening combinations. With the club actively rebuilding and growing its squad and preparing for the new Candy Two North campaign, this match is the first chance to translate training‑ground progress into match‑day performance.

“It has been a terrific show of support for the team in pre-season with attendance to training by old heads and new faces. Effort physically has been brilliant and the hopefully the hard work will show on the pitch.” Said Coach Lee Mckeith.

Mckeith went on to look at the season ahead. “Being a group that has barely played together it may take a while to start gelling as a team but I am sure it will show when needed. It may a take a few games before we truly know our game plan inside and out but the more we play the better we will get. If we keep our heads up and put our bodies on the line for the team everything will be good for the season ahead.”

It’s pre‑season — but it matters.
For South Shields, it’s a statement opportunity: to show progress, set standards, and build momentum.

Expect a competitive, high‑tempo contest with plenty of early‑season rust… and plenty of excitement.

Kick off on Saturday is 3pm at Brinkburn.