Rugby v Football Cook-Off Set to Draw Highland Crowd

International Rugby Sevens Player Scott Riddell is set to take on former Scotland football player Ally Dawson in a Royal Highland Show cook off set to test the players’ skills off the pitch.

The action will be happening in the Scotch Kitchen on the Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) stand (Avenue O, Stand 563) at 1.25pm at the show tomorrow.

The pair will be challenged to produce a quick, tasty, nutritious dish using Scotch Beef PGI and Scotch Lamb PGI and a range of ingredients from a mystery bag.

Their dishes, which must be created in under 30 mins, will be judged on taste and appearance by acclaimed chef, Lady Claire Macdonald and Bryan Burnett will be providing a lively commentary on the action!

Scott Riddell, who is the current captain of the Scotland 7s team, has the benefit of knowing all about the production of top quality Scotch Beef and Scotch Lamb which might prove a benefit to him tomorrow.

“I was brought up on Longfaugh Farm, a mixed farm just south of Pathhead. Back then we had 40 cows as well as sheep and arable crops. I also had three pigs which I recall making a ‘slight’ profit on! I still enjoy helping out on the farm when my schedule allows,” said Scott.

Up against Scott will be Ally Dawson, a former Scottish professional footballer who spent most of his career at Rangers.

Ally is now a Development Manager with Street Soccer Scotland, a social enterprise which Quality Meat Scotland works closely with as part of its health and education activities.

Having worked alongside QMS for a number of years Ally may have some inside knowledge of recipes to impress using Scotch Beef PGI and Scotch Lamb PGI.

“The rugby v football dual promises to be great fun and we’re looking forward to welcoming a big crowd to cheer the guys on tomorrow,” said Jennifer Robertson, Health and Education Co-ordinator with QMS.

“Both the players taking part are also very aware of the serious message of the importance of good nutrition in a healthy lifestyle and to deliver a strong performance in their respective sports.

“We’ll be asking the audience to help judge the overall winner – with points for kitchen style and tidiness as well as the end result of their culinary endeavours!”

The pair will also be answering questions from the audience about their sporting careers during their stint on the QMS stand.