The win streak for the Comox Valley Kickers women’s rugby team continued Saturday but the men’s team fell short in the Cowichan Valley, where both sides the Cowichan Piggies.
It was a game of endurance for the women’s match as both squads had just 15 players. The Piggies were first on the scoreboard, but the Kickers quickly fell into their groove and answered back. The back line was able to use their speed which helped to create overlaps. Inside centre Natalie Nguyen, outside centre Daris Tendler, and wingers Carrie Weekes and Béatrice Sylvain each scored once. Flyhalf Paula Simpson scored twice, and made five out of six conversions for a 40-15 win.
“It was a closer game than the score line indicates,” coach JP Lussier said. “Cowichan had some big runs. They were at our goal line for several plays, but we had a strong defensive stance and did not let them score. Once we were able to regain possession and relieve pressure, that’s when everything started to click. Our forward pack shined in the lineouts, winning all but a few and our back line kept on attacking.”
In their first game of the season, the men found themselves playing defence more often than attacking downfield.
“Cowichan is a more experienced and seasoned team,” coach Dan Mills said. “When we had possession, we ran well, and our set pieces were sound. With more practices and games under our belt, I believe that we will improve steadily. There were a lot of good takeaways from this game.”
The Kickers lost 87-7. Inside centre Devon Moore scored the only try for Comox Valley, which was followed by a successful conversion.
On Saturday, Oct. 5, the women’s team plays the Hornets in Nanaimo while the men’s team hosts the UVic Saxons at Cumberland Village Park.
Both teams are still recruiting players for the season. No experience needed. Practices are held at Cumberland Village Park on Mondays and Thursdays from 6:30-8 p.m.
FMI: check comoxvalleyrugby.ca or email cvkickers@gmail.com