Edinburgh’s David Blair and Glasgow’s Max Evans admit brotherly love will add to the intercity rivalry ahead of the opening leg of the David Lloyd 1872 Cup at Murrayfield on Boxing Day (kick off 7.30pm).
Stand-off Blair and centre Evans reveal they enjoy playing alongside their siblings in the back-line and both believe their family ties will make the Biggest Game in Scotland even more special.
Blair acknowledges that potentially forming the half-back combination with older brother Mike will make his parents proud and revealed his entire clan will be at Murrayfield for Magners League match. To watch the Biggest Game in Scotland call 0131 346 5180 and become part of history.
Blair said: “Obviously I enjoy playing alongside Mike, but it is more of a big deal for my parents than anything else.
“Growing up, I’ve watched Mike over the years and I know how he likes to play, so it is all about forming a partnership with him.
“My eldest brother and his girlfriend are coming up from London to watch the game, so the whole Blair family will be there.”
Scotland internationalist Evans echoed those sentiments and believes his on-field understanding with younger brother Thom could hand Glasgow an advantage, but refused to reveal their tactical family secrets.
He said: “It gives you a comfortable feeling playing alongside Thom because I’m so used to doing it.
“It was actually quite weird at the Bath game after he got injured because he wasn’t there on the wing.
“We’ve got a few tactical things planned as well when we will do moves when I know where is and vice versa, but I won’t reveal those secret tactics to Edinburgh.”
Nearly half of the Edinburgh squad were born in Edinburgh and local talent Blair believes that local pride will play a part in determining the outcome of the match.
The 23-year-old also says he is really looking forward to playing in front of a record Edinburgh home crowd for the opening leg at the home of Scottish Rugby.
He added: “I’m really excited about it and everyone is looking forward to it. We’ve just come back from a week off and there is a good buzz in the camp; hopefully we’ll get a victory.
“Hopefully we can show the people that come to the game that Edinburgh Rugby is a team that they can support for many years; not just for the derby.
“Half the squad are from Edinburgh, so representing the city against Glasgow means a lot to us, our friends and our families.”
Evans also revealed he is really excited about making his full Murrayfield debut in the Biggest Game in Scotland.
He said: “I’m really looking forward to the match because I’ve never actually played a full game at Murrayfield yet.
“I’ve played there for the Sevens, but I’ve never played there fully, so that is something I’m excited about.”
