The Comox Valley Raiders travelled down to Parksville on Sunday to play the Oceanside Titans in PeeWee and Junior Bantam football action.
The PeeWees started the morning off with a great game against a much-bigger team, following hard running by Angelique, Stan and Reuben. They were held out of the end zone but showed great drive.
On defence Justin had a solid game on the defensive line going up against a very large Parksville o-line and some great tackles were made by all. Although the score is technically not kept at this level, they lost a close one.
The Junior Bantam Raiders were once again outnumbered by almost two to one player-wise but also played a hard game with almost everyone playing both ways all game.
Parksville broke an early kickoff return for a touchdown but the defence played very well, with Jake, Cody and Bailey making some outstanding plays. Although they mostly held up to the Titans, Parksville was able to break a couple of big runs for scores.
On offence, running hard with Rheyden and Monte in the backfield, the Raiders had a couple of good marches down the field. Quarterback Sawyer and receiver Aiden hooked up on a fantastic pass but were unable to find pay dirt. Final score was 26-0 Titans.
“They all played really well and I am proud to coach this group," the coach said. "We have been a bit low on numbers this year and were clearly outsized, but they play how we practise – hard and never giving up.
"I said it before these kids have heart and are having fun out there, that’s what matters most. Game ball to Monte for sure, he was a force out there, and was one of many that never left the field all day.”
Next games are on Saturday at the artificial turf field down in Ladysmith on Saturday. The PeeWees start at 11 a.m. with the JBs starting at 1 p.m.
– Comox Valley Raiders Football