Week 9 – Déjà Vu
The day looked promising to start, perfect weather for rugby against a foe that both teams were well acquainted with facing them in last year’s final as well.
Our u14 boys came out flying, moving the ball with ease and scoring first. CW responded quickly though, and it was a well played back and forth first half with big runs from both sides. Unfortunately, the second half we lost the handle on the ball, and it seemed that every time we were on the attack there would be an unforced error aka a knock on. They took advantage of those errors and scored three consecutive tries to widen the margin however the boys kept battling to the end. An island championship was not to be and for the second year in a row it would remain in Oak Bay.
The u18’s also started the game with their foot on the gas pedal and there were some huge hits on both sides, however one quick error and boom they scored. We quickly responded but missed the kick and they managed two more with conversion, so it was 21 to 5 at the half. The lads dug in, scoring another unconverted try and both teams kept hammering at each other with players going down. In what seemed like a tide turning moment Cohen made a big run inside the 22 meter and was tackled just short of the goal, then making one thrust to score he lost control of the ball. We kept pressing but we just couldn’t punch it over with multiple chances and time ran out. Catch the game here; https://app.veo.co/matches/cw-rugby-20241202-u18boys-vs-salish-4ec9d47c/
Playing for the bonze medal in their division, the u16 girls were also in play against cross town rivals Cowichan. Lots of scoring through the game but ultimately came up a try short. We do have GoPro referee footage here; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3NsGHCcZ9I
That is it for league play, however both u16 boys and girls are heading to Florida this spring for the tropical 7s as Salish teams. We are working on some fundraising for that tour, which we are hoping to include an on line 50/50 draw. All efforts will be announced through the website so we will be in touch.
Thank you to all the coaches, managers and volunteers that helped make this season happen. A big acknowledgement to Shawnigan Lake School for their support and the Coast Salish Peoples on whose traditional lands we are grateful for the opportunity to play this great sport.