11/8/26

Having made the trip to Dublin for the inaugural Masters Eurofest in 2025, the old men of Brixton returned to the island of Ireland for the second edition on 8 August, this time in Belfast.

Nine teams took part - Ulster Broncos, Belfast Bald Eagles, Leinster Warriors, Munster Stags, Chester Gladiators, Cardiff Blue Dragons, Widnes, Blackpool Scorpions and Brixton - with each playing four games at Lisburn RFC.

The Bulls played Blackpool, Chester, Widnes and Belfast. Highlights included a guest appearance by former Castleford, Hull KR and Melbourne Storm centre Jake Webster against Belfast. 

The 42 year-old New Zealand international not only scored himself but he generously created tries for wing Martin Glover and halfback/tour manager Tim Probert when clean through. 

Loose forward Craig Monteiro and prop Adrian Gee also touched down against the Bald Eagles, the latter scoring twice, including one from the much-rehearsed ‘Hazel’ move.

It is almost a cliché to say games are played in the spirit of Masters, but Eurofest 2026 was a true credit to rugby league and its players, coaches, volunteers, and families.

The highly impressive Widnes side brought over a huge contingent of players and wellwishers, and they played sympathetically and with good grace in a game in which the Bulls struggled to cope with their sharp running lines and inside passes.

As a superb bonus, Masters Eurofest coincided with the Fleadh – the world's largest Irish music festival - the first time Belfast has ever hosted it.

Needless to say, the Fleadh made for a superb atmosphere in Belfast city centre as the Bulls enjoyed their post-rugby refuelling and rehydration.

We look forward to the next Masters Eurofest in 2027 and to sample the famous Irish hospitality for a third time.

10/8/26

Brixton Bulls Masters’ Tim Grindell represented Wales Masters in the inaugural ‘Celtic Nations’ festival held at Cardiff Arms Park on 25th July.  Tim won caps against Scotland and Ireland. 

The day started with the team assembling at the famous Angel Hotel opposite Cardiff Arms Park and being presented with their shirts by ex-League and Union international Rowland Phillips.  They’d also received a good luck message from fellow dual-code international and BBC Rugby Commentator Jonathan Davies. 

The day saw a curtain raiser between new side Barry Bombers taking on the Royal Marines Masters while the Welsh team warmed up in front of their spectators which included Sir Ian Botham. After a last briefing by the team coach and words from Captain Nolan Evans-Nicklin, the teams lined up in the tunnel with their children or grandchildren beside them. Led by a marching band from a Welsh RAF cadet wing, the teams strode out onto the pitch before singing the three national anthems. 

The first match saw Wales take on Scotland. Both sides found their way into the game, with the Welsh gradually gelling in attack in particular. Tim started on the bench and was brought on in the forwards after 15 minutes. The Scottish defence had been resolute throughout the opening stanza before Christopher Haan scored the game’s only try for Wales early in the second half. Overall it was a strong game played in the right spirit which, as with all Masters matches, finished 0-0. 

The second match against Ireland gave Tim the opportunity to be named in the starting lineup, beginning the game at left prop. The Irish were a well drilled unit and caused problems for a Welsh team which was feeling the impact of injuries having lost Vice-Captain Owen Lynam in the warmup to a hamstring issue and a number of other players picking up injuries across the two games. This meant the Welsh team were having to re-jig their lineup throughout the second game in particular, ending up playing a winger at Loose-Forward.  Despite this Wales still scored one try through Gethin Morgan, with the opposition picking up three tries. The game finished 0-0 and Scotland then played Ireland in another physical encounter. 

After the matches the teams shared a drink in true masters spirit before the presentations. The Welsh team entered the Cardiff Rugby clubhouse together singing the traditional ‘Calon Lan’  Tim was presented with his heritage number- 84 and his international cap. As tradition dictates he wasn’t allowed to take it off until leaving the clubhouse. 

Tim said ‘It was a dream come true to win my first caps for Wales and to do it at Cardiff Arms Park was extra special. I learnt so much from the experience and playing with the other players which I’ll take back to the Bulls. Thank you to everyone from the Welsh Masters Committee for making the experience so fantastic.  Thanks to everyone at Brixton who’s organised, played and supported us this year and let us keep on playing! 

Masters Rugby League is a social version of the game for players over 35s with modified contact depending on age and injuries. We’re always looking for new players, please check out Play>Masters  if you want to come and try at our next game. 

9/8/26

Brixton Bulls are heading to the London & South East Rugby League Final at Chiswick RFC next week, where they will face Elmbridge Eagles with a 14:30 kick-off as they inch closer to Challenge Cup immortalisation.

The Bulls booked their place in the final with a 44–38 semi-final victory over Wests Warriors, coming through a relentless, high-scoring contest that demanded resilience, composure and a huge collective effort, an ever-present character trait in this Brixton side.

Victory over Elmbridge Eagles in next week’s league final would send Brixton into the Harry Jepson Cup Final, with this talented group now within touching distance of immortalising their season and securing a place in next year’s Challenge Cup, the oldest competition in either code of rugby and one of the most prestigious cup competitions in world rugby league.

The Brixton Bulls supporters and community travelled from far and wide to see the Black and Golds take on an experienced Wests Warriors side.

Supporters travelled from Hull, Ireland, Cheltenham and Castleford alongside the ever-faithful Bulltras from Brixton, creating a sizeable and relentlessly loud crowd on a warm Saturday at Kings House Sports Ground in Chiswick.

And that noise is becoming part of the story of this team.

Brixton struck first to lead 4–0, but Wests responded quickly and opened up a 4–12 advantage.

The Bulls refused to let the game drift away from them. They fought their way back to 10–12 and then 16–12 before another Wests score put the visitors ahead again at 16–18.

Brixton answered once more.

A crucial score before the break sent the Bulls into half-time 22–18 ahead, but there was never going to be anything comfortable about this semi-final. 

As the dust settled on the first half, one could see that there is a growing feeling around Brixton Bulls. Something bigger than results is beginning to take shape and that was evident as the match kicked off for the second half. 

What started as a rugby league club is developing something close to a cult following - not only among rugby league enthusiasts, but among people from Brixton and the wider South London community who have found a team and a club they can genuinely identify with.

Fans seem to coming because this is Brixton side visibly plays for one another. Players, families, friends, volunteers and supporters are increasingly becoming part of the same thing.

The connection between the team and the touchline is becoming difficult to ignore: every carry greeted with noise, every defensive stand roared home and every try celebrated by a crowd that increasingly feels like an extension of the thirteen players on the pitch.

For a club still writing its story, that following is becoming one of Brixton’s greatest strengths. There is a feeling certainly that the Brixton and their community are building something that everyone can be a part of reminiscent of the Spanish football and Europa Conference League side Raya Vallecano have in Madrid, a team built up by the community and the supporters alike. A place where the community and the team are one. 

Wests levelled the game at 22–22 early in the second half before Brixton produced their strongest spell of the match.

The Bulls went through the gears, moving from 22–22 to 28–22 and then 34–22, beginning to put daylight between themselves and the Warriors.

Wests came back again. 34–26. Then 34–32.

With the game tightening and a place in the final hanging in the balance, Brixton found another response.

The Bulls pushed the score out to 40–32 and then 44–32, before Wests grabbed the final score of the afternoon. Full time: Brixton Bulls 44–38 Wests Warriors.

Michael Kasa was named Player of the Match after an outstanding performance in a game where Brixton needed players willing to stand up in the biggest moments.

Across the park, the Bulls’ forward pack laid the foundations. There were barnstorming carries from Blaise Salle, Ben McGuinness, Dylan Saayman and Elliott Hagan, repeatedly punching through the defensive line, generating momentum and forcing Wests onto the back foot.

*Milkha Singh, Arthur Fox and Liam Hewison *brought enormous work rate and leadership to the contest, particularly as the game became increasingly physical and fatigue began to take hold.

Out wide, Gabriel Williams and Ugo Onyeji produced electric runs and tries, giving Brixton another point of attack and constantly threatening whenever space appeared.

In a game that repeatedly swung from one side to the other, the Bulls also benefited from the on-field leadership of Patrick Joyce and Emmet Banahan, helping keep the side composed through the momentum changes and focused on the next job.

And when the margins became increasingly important, Ben Telfer’s kicking from the tee proved decisive. In a six-point game, those conversions mattered enormously.

Telfer’s accuracy ensured Brixton converted pressure into points and ultimately provided the scoreboard margin that secured the victory.

The Brixton Bull’s resilience has earned the Bulls one more game and the opportunity to take another historic step forward the following week. 

After a season of building, fighting and growing together, it isn’t simply a Brixton Bulls team going to the Final. The Brixton Bulls community is going with them.

18/7/26

It wasn't the ending we hoped for, with both our U12 and U16 teams falling just short in their Grand Finals at Hazlewood. Playing in challenging conditions on a scorching hot day and on the astroturf, every player gave absolutely everything they had.

Running out onto the field to be announced before the finals was a special moment and a reward for all the hard work, commitment and teamwork shown throughout the season. Both squads played with tremendous heart and represented Brixton Bulls with pride.

A huge thank you goes to all the parents, families and supporters who turned out in force and cheered the teams on all day. Your encouragement made a real difference.

While the results didn't go our way, reaching a Grand Final is a fantastic achievement that every player, coach and volunteer should be incredibly proud of. We'll learn from the experience, come back stronger, and look forward to the challenges ahead. Well done, Bulls!

11/7/26

Double delight as U12s and U16s reach the grand finals!

It was a memorable semi-final weekend for the Brixton Bulls junior boys, with two teams booking their place in next weekend's Grand Finals.

The U12s were scheduled to play at home against Elmbridge Eagles, but with our pitch unavailable due to the hot, dry weather, the fixture was switched to Elmbridge. A huge thank you to Elmbridge for hosting the match at short notice.

The Bulls produced a superb performance to record a convincing 26–10 victory. Having learned from last week's meeting between the sides, the boys played some outstanding rugby league, working together brilliantly as a team and showing just how much they have developed over the season. Their reward is a well-deserved place in next weekend's Grand Final.

The U14s also travelled to face Elmbridge in their semi-final. Despite a spirited display, they were beaten 5 tries to 2. The score line didn't reflect the determination shown by the team, who defended their line courageously throughout. Unforced errors proved costly, but the effort and commitment never wavered and every player left everything on the field. Reaching the semi-finals is a fantastic achievement and the whole squad should be immensely proud of their season.

There was more fantastic news later in the day as the U16s travelled to Brentwood and produced the result of the weekend. Entering the match as underdogs, they delivered a sensational performance to earn a deserved victory and secure their place in the Grand Final. The boys showed tremendous resilience, played some outstanding rugby league, crossed for five excellent tries and defended brilliantly, allowing almost no line breaks. It was a complete team performance built on toughness, discipline and belief.

That means Brixton Bulls will have two teams competing for silverware next weekend, with both the U12s and U16s heading to the Grand Finals at Hazelwood.

Congratulations to all three squads on representing the club with such pride. Good luck to our finalists—we'll all be behind you as you look to bring the trophies home!

27/6/26

The Masters hosted Medway Dragons on 27th of June as part of the Club Day that saw players from age 6 to 72 representing Brixton in rugby league activities.

On a sweltering day, the game was played in the true Masters spirit with some great rugby from both sides.

The afternoon was rounded off with a BBQ and drinks in the sun.

Thanks to Medway and guest players from Solent for making the trip.

13/6/26

Mixed fortunes for Junior Bulls as U12 and U14 secure important wins

It was another busy weekend for Brixton Bulls' junior sides, with victories for the U12 and U14, while the U16 endured a difficult afternoon against strong opposition.

The U12s travelled to Bromley Bengals and produced one of their most resilient performances of the season to come away with a deserved 5 tries to 3 victory.

Brixton started brightly and raced into a 12-0 lead through some excellent attacking rugby. The Bulls looked in control for much of the first half, but Bromley showed plenty of spirit and struck with two quick tries before the break to swing the momentum and leave the contest finely balanced.

The second half was a real battle. Both sides traded scores in a competitive and physical encounter, but Brixton managed to extend their advantage to 5 tries to 3 through strong teamwork and disciplined play. With five minutes remaining, however, the match was far from over. Bromley threw everything at the Bulls and camped inside the Brixton half for long periods. What followed was a heroic defensive effort, with every player digging deep to repel wave after wave of attacks. The commitment, determination and teamwork shown in those closing stages ultimately secured an excellent away victory.

It was a strong all-round performance and another important step forward for a side that continues to grow in confidence as the season progresses.

The U14s put behind them some recent disappointing performances to record an impressive 36-8 victory over Elmbridge and strengthen their push towards the play-offs.

Brixton made their intentions clear early, with strong running laying the platform for Wilson to power over under the posts. Further tries from Cassidy and Phillips quickly followed as the Bulls established control.

Although some ill-discipline allowed Elmbridge opportunities and a score out wide, Brixton responded well. Wilson grabbed his second before the visitors produced the try of the match. Starting deep inside their own half, McMillan found Heritage with a superb pass, and after breaking through several tackles, Heritage produced a clever offload for Cassidy to sprint away from halfway.

Elmbridge managed a second score, but Phillips completed a fine individual performance with another well-taken try to round off the scoring.

McMillan was flawless with the boot, converting all six tries, while he and Marmont-Roberson directed the attack impressively throughout. Nelson's defensive work embodied the team's commitment, while special praise goes to Peryer and Weathers, who both stepped up an age group and more than held their own. Weathers deservedly collected Player of the Match honours.

A deserved victory and an encouraging performance as the U14s look to build momentum for the remainder of the season.

The U16s hosted Elmbridge but found themselves up against a strong and clinical opposition, eventually going down 60-16.

Despite the scoreline, the Bulls continued to battle throughout the match and never stopped competing. The result will provide plenty of lessons for the group as they look to bounce back in the coming weeks.

With two wins from three matches across the junior section, there was plenty to celebrate for the Bulls this weekend.

30/5/26

Brixton Bulls Out in Force for Challenge Cup Festival and Wembley Experience

Challenge Cup Final Day was a memorable occasion for Brixton Bulls, with players, coaches and families from across the club enjoying a fantastic day of rugby league from start to finish.

The day began at the Challenge Cup Festival at Harrow School Sports Ground, where Brixton Bulls fielded teams at U7, U9, U11, and U12. It was fantastic to see so many young Bulls pulling on the famous black and yellow shirt and representing the club with pride.

Across all age groups there were some excellent performances, with plenty of tries scored, determined defence and, most importantly, smiles on faces throughout the morning. The festival provided a brilliant opportunity for players to test themselves against clubs from across the country while enjoying the unique atmosphere that comes with Challenge Cup Final weekend.

Following the festival, attention turned to Wembley Stadium for the Betfred Challenge Cup Final. Scores of Bulls players, parents and supporters made the journey across London, creating what was undoubtedly one of the largest club contingents in attendance.

Before the final itself, many of our young players were given the opportunity to take part in the traditional pitch parade. The atmosphere inside the stadium was outstanding, with players and families enjoying a day that showcased rugby league at its very best. Events like these remind us why our sport is so special and highlight the strength of the rugby league community.

Up the Bulls.

Sat, 30  May
U12  16   0  Emley Moor
U12  8   12  Brentwood Eels
U12  16   0  Bransholme Bears
U12  16   0  Hemel Stags
U12  16   4  Oulton Raiders
U12  16   4  Pilkington Recs
U11  0   0  Brentwood Eels
U11  0   0  Halton Farnworth Hornets A
U11  0   0  Blackbrook Royals
U11  0   0  Pilkington Recs
U11  0   0  East Hull
U11  0   0  Halton Farnworth Hornets B
U9  0   0  Elmbridge Eagles
U9  0   0  Golborne Parkside Pirates A
U9  0   0  Golborne Parkside Pirates C
U9  0   0  Blackbrook Royals B
U9  0   0  Brentwood Eels A
U9  0   0  Hindley Stags
U7  0   0  Blackbrook Royals C
U7  0   0  Blackbrook Royals D
U7  0   0  Blackbrook Royals B
U7  0   0  Bassetlaw Bulldogs A
U7  0   0  Blackbrook Royals A

16/5/26

The 2026 season is a Go!

Brixton Bulls Open Age made the trip to Bedford and returned south with a convincing 40–16 win built on effort, physicality and a mix of experience and youth carrying the side forward.

It was that kind of afternoon — hard carries, tough defence and a Bulls side that kept turning pressure into points.

The young legs brought energy while the experienced heads dug in through the bruises, bumps and questionable recovery times. Bedford stayed competitive, but the Bulls had too much power and pace across the park, running in eight tries and controlling the contest for long periods.

Try scorers: K. Thomas-Smith ×2, U. Onyenji ×2, B. McGuinness, C. Milner, G. Williams, M. Ashcroft

Conversions: J. Burke ×4

A strong away performance, plenty of sore bodies, and two competition points heading back to Brixton.

#UpTheBulls

Photo Album by Keirha Lightbody

16/5/26

Busy Morning at Bulls HQ as Juniors Take to the Field

It was a packed morning at Streatham & Croydon RFC as Brixton Bulls U12, U13, U14 and U16 sides all hosted opposition in a busy schedule of junior rugby league.

The standout result came from the U12s, who secured their first ever victory playing 13-a-side, producing an excellent all-round performance to defeat St Albans. Strong defence laid the platform throughout, while those opportunities in attack were taken with some impressive running lines and selfless support play. A huge milestone for the group and reward for the progress they’ve shown this season.

The U13s put in a determined effort in their development fixture against Bromley Bengals. For several players it was their first ever rugby league match, making it an important day of learning and experience. Plenty of positives to build on.

The U14s faced a tough challenge against Bromley in a high-scoring encounter but competed hard right to the final whistle, showing resilience and managing to put 20 points on the board.

The U16s rounded off the day with an exciting contest, holding on for a 34–32 victory after scoring some outstanding tries. It was a fantastic effort across the squad, with special mention to the debutants who stepped up brilliantly. A close finish, plenty of character shown, and another memorable day for the team.

A brilliant morning across the age groups with effort, improvement and some big moments to celebrate throughout.

9/5/26

Brixton Bulls U14 put on commanding performance at St Albans Centurions to win 62-4.

The real story of the day was the new players putting in impressive performances with a hat trick for Hamour and tries for Khan and Usiholo.

Hamour scored first with a 60 metre run to the line. Brixton then were slack in defence and allowed St Albans to score from 5 metres.

Following that Brixton asserted them selves with strong running and big tackles from Heritage, Wilson and Cassidy.

Hale was busy at dummy half and Marmont-Robertson and McMillan led the team skilfully from half back.

Ferreira-Durrant ran 70 metres but checked inside when he was bound to score. No matter the ball went through the hands with Cassidy scoring on the other side of the pitch.

St Albans were a game team but the tries kept coming, McMillan scoring the final try.

There were clear signs of the team putting coach Kieran’s plans into effect so everyone should get to training on Wednesday before next week’s game against Bromley.

Hamour was named man of the match. Heritage and Nelson caught the eye in defence but every player deserves credit for an all round good performance.

Tries: Hamour x3, Marmont-Robertson x2, Hale, Cassidy, Wilson, McMillan, Khan, Usiholo, Nelson.

9/5/26

Brixton Bulls U12 welcomed our old friends at Elmbridge Eagles for the first league match of the season. Despite the Eagles bringing some powerful runners, the Bulls managed to keep in touch until the end of the game, with tries from Lacey, Rodrigues Oliveria and Searle, and three fantastic conversions from Searle.

In the end, Elmbridges strength proved enough to give them the victory. Rodrigues Oliveria finished as man of the match for his intense effort again.