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Tom Coleman

The Wales v Scotland rules fans should know as bars to close early at Principality Stadium and Covid Passes needed

Wales fans are set to descend on Cardiff's Principality Stadium on Saturday for what is a crucial Six Nations clash with Scotland.

After fans were forced to stay away from sports stadia as recently as January due to Welsh Government rules, there is likely to be a comparative air of normality about the occasion, with the Welsh capital gearing up for a busy and vibrant matchday experience once again.

It is the first time fans have been able to attend Six Nations matches in Cardiff for two years.

However, there will still be a few measures in place for fans heading to the big game.

Here's a quick rundown on the rules and guidance fans should know about for Wales v Scotland:

Bar and alcohol changes at Principality Stadium

Wales v Scotland will mark the first time food and drink outlets on the Principality Stadium's concourses will close after half time.

It marks the beginning of the Welsh Rugby Union's trial, which will also be in place for Wales' home matches against France and Italy, which has been introduced to try and stamp out anti-social behaviour reported during the autumn amid two pitch invader incidents.

All food and beverage outlets will be closed after half time, so spectators will be unable to buy food or soft drinks.

During trading times, lower-percentage beer will be made available as rugby bosses try to improve the match-day experience for all. Heineken will be bringing in 4.1% ABV Amstel Bier (£5.70 a pint) to eventually replace the stronger Heineken 5% product (£6 a pint).

As for practicalities, the WRU say they will serve fans who have been waiting in queues but stewards will be on hand to turn away latecomers who join the queue at the start of the second half.

Free water stations can be found throughout the stadium, while the WRU is emphasising responsible drinking, positive behaviour, consideration of others and fans taking responsibility for their own actions.

Stewards are also set to address poor behaviour "with increased vigour", and will reserve the right to refuse service or entry to the ground to intoxicated fans - an "element of the stewarding role [that] will be re-emphasised at upcoming matches".

The trial will be subject to an ongoing review.

Entry to the Principality Stadium

Entry to the stadium is set to be staggered, and supporters can find their entry time and gate on their ticket.

The WRU is also encouraging supporters to follow Welsh Government guidance and wear a face covering within the stadium's indoor concourse areas.

The stadium's roof will be open for all three of Wales' home games as a mitigating measure against Covid. Supporters are advised to plan for all weathers.

Those attending the rugby match are strongly advised to leave large bags at home and pay attention to the Principality Stadium's prohibited items list before travelling.

Covid Passes still required

While it has been announced that Covid passes will no longer be required from Friday, February 18, they are still required for Wales v Scotland.

Covid Passes, or evidence of a negative lateral flow test with 48 hours of the game, will be required to gain entry, with spot checks set to be carried out on entry to the gate before supporters move on to get their digital tickets scanned and bags searched.

You can find out more about Wales' Covid Passes here.

Travelling to Wales v Scotland

Fans heading to the game by train are once again reminded that face coverings remain mandatory on public transport in Wales, unless they are exempt.

Train services are expected to be busy throughout the day as supporters flock to the capital, with Transport for Wales saying they will lay on as many extra services as possible to cope with demand.

Nevertheless, fans are advised to plan their journeys carefully on the day.

The rear car park at Cardiff Central is set to be closed in order to allow easier access by bus, along with a queuing system for Valleys services.

Penarth Road will also be closed after the game.

Road closures in Cardiff

With the kick-off taking place at 2.15pm, Cardiff Council say there will be a full city centre road closure from 10.15am until 6.15pm to ensure all ticket holders are able to get into the stadium safely. You can find more details here.

St Mary Street taxi rank (outside the House of Fraser) will close at 10.15am and will re-open at 6.15pm

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