As England prepare to face Scotland for the first time in Rugby League, here’s a look back on one of the greatest rivalries across sport.
The oldest rivalry in sport writes a new chapter in its history this weekend.
‘Auld enemies’ England and Scotland face each other in the first ever Rugby League international between the sides as the curtain raiser in Saturday’s Four Nations double-header at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry.
Following centuries of historical, political and social unrest between the two nations, tensions between the neighbours have always stirred up an animosity around sporting events.
Since the first football international between the sides in 1872, the 111 fixtures which have followed have all carried the same passion, intensity and intrigue.
One of the most iconic moments in England’s football history was Paul Gascoigne’s famous volley against the Scots in the 1996 European Championship as the Three Lions beat their rivals 2-0 at Wembley Stadium.
Likewise, Scottish fans will point to their 3-2 win over then World Cup champions England in 1967 – a result which jokingly dubbed them as the real world champions.
England’s Tom and Sam Burgess.
Scotland’s Dale Ferguson and Danny Brough.
Rugby union also generates the same friction between the countries when the sides annually compete for the Calcutta Cup, which has been held by England since 2009.
England have come out victors in 74 of the 134 games between the sides with Scotland winning 42 and 18 of the games being drawn.
The nations have also competed over the years in cricket, hockey and netball world cups.
Following their opening Four Nations defeat to New Zealand last Saturday, England know that a win over the Bravehearts is crucial in order to keep their chances of making the final alive.
Scotland meanwhile are keen to make their mark on the series and know that there is no better way of doing that by picking up two points against their neighbours.
Saturday’s game represents a new sport for the old enemies to compete in but the rivalry, interest and excitement remains the same.
Tickets for the double-header at the Ricoh Arena and three other Ladbrokes Four Nations matches remain on sale. Buy tickets here or call the Rugby League Ticket Hotline on 0844 856 1113 (calls to this number will cost 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.)
Full 2016 Ladbrokes Four Nations schedule is as follows:
Saturday November 5 (5.30pm): England v Scotland, Ricoh Arena, Coventry
Saturday November 5 (8.00pm): New Zealand v Australia, Ricoh Arena, Coventry
Friday November 11 (8.00pm): New Zealand v Scotland, The Zebra Claims Stadium, Workington
Sunday November 13 (2.00pm): England v Australia, The London Stadium, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London
Sunday November 20 (2.30pm): Final, Anfield, Liverpool