Knockout Guidelines

Knockout Competitions Guidelines

CLUBS NOT ENTERING THE COUNTY COMPETITIONS WILL BE INELIGIBLE FOR THE RFU NATIONAL COMPETITIONS THE FOLLOWING SEASON.

Middlesex Cup

The Senior County Cup will be open to the top eight County Clubs in the London Divisions (based on on their finishing position in the previous season) and will take the format of knockout competition. There will be no seeding.

Middlesex Bowl

Open to all County Clubs in the London Divisions and Herts /Middx 1 below the top eight . However, the Competitions Committee reserve the right to waive this rule and invite alternative Clubs where it believes this will ensure equity of competition between the Clubs that take part. There will be no seeding.

Both Competitions:

* There will be a draw for each round
* The venue for the Final will be decided on the toss of a coin by the finalists.
* Match Dates: There are designated weekends for the matches – see below. On these weekends it will be for the clubs to decide whether to play on the Saturday or the Sunday (see also para 3 of the Administrative Instructions below).
* However where Clubs have a League match either before or after the designated weekend, but before the next round, they can double up. The only stipulation is that they clear this with the Cup and League organisers.
* The Fixtures must be played before the designated weekend of the next round. They cannot be played later unless the weather causes the postponement. See alo Rule 18 of the Rules of the Competition below.

Administrative Instructions

FOR EACH MATCH THE HOME TEAM MUST:

1. Once the draw has been made the home team should contact the away team immediately to agree a date. Once agreed the Home team must inform the Cup organiser and its referee organiser. The Home team is responsible for confirming the referee in the week of the match.

2. At least 10 days prior to the match make contact with a representative of the visiting club and confirm ground venue and directions thereto.

3. If the fitness of the pitch is in doubt due to bad weather, consult with the visiting club in sufficient time to stop unnecessary travelling. Postponement should be avoided if possible. The decision on fitness first rests with the clubs (not the referee). If the clubs disagree an alternative venue should be sought, including an alternative pitch on the home ground or on the opponent’s ground. If agreement cannot be reached by the clubs, the home club should telephone the Competition Secretary who will decide. If he is not available the contact can be made with any member of the Competitions Standing Committee. Obviously this should be done at least one hour before the due kick-off time.

4. On the day of the match inform the referee whether or not a medically trained person is available. Also that he is aware of the extra times rules (10a & 10b) in the event of a drawn match.

5. Change jerseys in the event of a colour clash.

6. Immediately after each game the Home Club Hon.Secretary shall notify by telephone the Organising Hon.Secretary of the result.