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Rugby Union

London rivals to kick-off Premiership

19/07/2007

The Guinness Premiership has unveiled its full fixture list for the 2007/08 season, beginning with the now traditional London double-header at Twickenham.

On Saturday September 15th, Harlequins will play London Irish at the home of the English Rugby Football Union, with kick-off scheduled for 15:30 BST, before being followed immediately by London Wasps against Saracens (18:00 BST kick-off).

Reigning champions Leicester Tigers open their Premiership title defence with a tricky trip to Bristol the following day.

West Country rivals Bath and Worcester Warriors clash on the opening day of the season at the Recreation Ground, while Leeds Canegie host Gloucester and Newcastle Falcons are at home to Sale Sharks.

Jon Varney, the commercial director of Guinness Premiership organisers Premier Rugby, said: "It's set to be another exciting season.

"Matches were closer than ever last season and clubs have made some significant signings over the closed season.

"Attendances continue to rise year-on-year in the Guinness Premiership and we're hoping that it'll be another great season full of world-class rugby for the fans."

The first meeting between last season's top two sides, Leicester and Gloucester, takes place at Welford Road on Saturday October 6th.

And the Tigers also face a rematch against their Heineken Cup conquerors Wasps at Adams Park the previous week (Sunday September 30th).

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