Burnaby Lake Men 2 of 3 on the Weekend

Saturday February 5, 2010 – Burnaby's first and Premier Mens team
faced CW. The firsts came away with their first win of the half 26-10
while the Premier Men fell to CW 27-12. The Thirds traveled to Ridge
Meadows RFC where they won 44-17.

In the third division win, strong performances were had by Craig
McLaughlin, Joe Lee and George Fruean. Dennis “The Juice” Marsden
scored 2 tries despite 57 knock ons.

The Firsts and Premiers traveled to the Island to take on the
Castaway Wanderers RFC. For these long trips preparation is essential.
Players pack the night before, preparing any extra kit, food and post
game attire. Sleep is precious as island trips usually start at 6am.

Entering the ferry terminal one is greeted by weary and sleepy
teammates. On board the ferry its the “All Aboard” in the cafeteria.
The buffet for Coach Fell and Manager Mr. Fairs. Others try to catch
some sleep, others play cards to pass time.

Upon arrival to the field the firsts took to their preparations. The
Premiers sat and had a feed. Subway sandwiches. Conditions were ideal
for mid-winter. A little wet, but the fields were firm and could
support fast and open play.

The first division came ready to play and won 26-10. Exceptional
debut performances from young studs Fuku Vikilani and Blakie Vaivaka.
Captain Mike Devlin lead from the front row. Strong performances were
also had by Carlos A. Pereira, Edvin Sabic, Kimi, and Esava. Tries
were scored by Esava, Blakie, Aaron Reed and Edvin Sabic with 3
converts by Carlos A. Pereira.

In the premier division Burnaby were ready to take CW. The game got
off to a fast paced start. Burnaby were first to receive the ball and
quickly formed an attack down the forward channel. The backs too were
on and took the ball up the center of the field.

Both teams played aggressive rugby. From the start teams were
penalized repeatedly for rough play. Names were called and I'm sure
someones feelings were hurt. The partisan crowd boisterously backing
CW.

After a foul play infringement by CW, Burnaby had a crack at points.
James Gough lined the ball up and chipped the ball off the left
upright. The ball bounced into CW's hands and they were able to clear
the ball.

It was then Castaways turn on the attack. CW were well drilled and
caught Burnaby off guard with their blind side attacks. Advancing the
ball up the field CW were awarded a penalty when a Burnaby defender
was deemed offside on the 22 metre line. An easy 3 points for CW

Castaways then scored a try through their forwards. A lineout win
followed by several forward phases saw their pack score on the
sideline. The conversion was missed. The half ended 8-0 for Castaways.

At the start of the second half chirpy play from both teams resulted
in some extracurricular play around the breakdown. This niggly play
escalated, a scuffle ensued, and a CW player was decked. With the
crowd in full effect, Burnaby's Captain was shown the red card.

As both teams hotly contested for possession of the ball a CW player
committed an infraction by throwing a punch. This was caught by the
touch judge and the player was sent off with a yellow card.

This gave Burnaby a jolt. The two bookings had opened up play.
Burnaby orchestrated a drive down the field through the speed of
winger Isaac. He was unable to beat his man outright but was able to
retain possession long enough to for Burnaby win the breakdown. The
ball was then spun back to midfield where Centre Joe bashed in for a
try. Conversion James Gough 8-7 for CW.

With momentum swinging in Burnaby's favour Castaways were eager to get
on the offensive. Several phases in Burnaby's half seemed futile as
their efforts were thwarted. However in a defensive lapse the CW
standoff managed to stiff-arm across the gainline and offload to an
inside support player for a try. 15-7 CW.

Burnaby were a little let down by the try but were intent on leveling
the score. After regaining possession of the ball Burnaby would mount
an attack that lasted several phases but ended up just short of the CW
22 metre line.

Maybe a little too much Subway. A rare mental lapse in the ranks
enabled CW to score again quickly. a break down the sidelines was
finished off by a chip and chase leading to a fourth try by CW.

With minutes remaining Burnaby again mounted an attack. Determined
this time to get points. After a number of phases, a break in the
defensive structure allowed Joe to slip through the middle of the
field for a try at the whistle. Final score 27-12.

With the game over the post game traditions ensued. Pizza and Cookies.
Men of the Match and storytelling. Thanks to the officials and to the
Castaway Wanderers for the games.

Burnaby's next games are away at Capilanos on Feburary 19th.

www.blrc.bc.ca

Posted by Rain at February 10, 2011 01:30 PM