STE-ANNE'S RUGBY HOME OPENER AT ECOLE ST-GEORGES  24th May 2009

And a fine time was had by all

 

The Ste-Anne's women, 2008 champions, opened their 2009 season against the Montreal Irish last Saturday 23rd May 2009.  The final score was 38-10, which is a fair reflection of a Ste-Anne's team that was well prepared, fairly fit (though not without room for improvement) and committed to playing a high level of Rugby.

 

 

The support play and open field play in general was excellent. The Irish side was intense and they tested the SAB defense near the goal line on numerous occasions. If the Ste-Anne's women had not been totally committed, the outcome might have been very different. Trischa continues her torrid scoring pace with another try, while Yerbury added one with a fantastic individual effort.

 

 

The large crowd that gathered for the early 12 noon game was treated to a wonderful display by two players who should still be playing for Canada, Sommer Christie and Steph Lynam. These two, skilled and knowledgeable young women are at the top of their game, not to mention beautiful,  and their coordinated attack is as smooth as only a decade of regularly playing side by side can accomplish. They are well-supported by Erica and the Yerb.

 


Elsewhere Tess Kelley showed fine form and her blazing pace, and the pack demonstrated that they are willing to take on any task to produce quality ball. The likes of Chelsea, Sam, Tanja, Katy, Kat, Monica and Angela were ready to sacrifice body and soul in the breakdowns. There is still work to be done on this team,  but for a first outing, the 2009 edition of the SAB women looks like it will once again provide exciting Rugby and be a bright highlight in the Club's season.

 

Following the Women's game, the men played an exhibition match against the Montreal Irish. As one might expect, the reserve and first team games had all the intensity of regular season match-ups. Both teams were able to show some very good things. The Irish, who may have been worried about their move to the first division showed that they can compete easily at this level.

 

Their reserves beat the SAB 2nds 22-17 on the last play of the game. This was despite some inspired play from Andrew Jamieson and his father (shouldn't there be an extra fee when a father gets to play with his son?). Hayden and Phil David provided good leadership qualities, those same traits that helped them bring the 2nds and thirds to the finals last year. The game was well refereed by Jessie Matiazuk. She deserves great recognition for refraining from calling any penalties on her fiance Ben.


Off the pitch, there was a small altercation on the sidelines, when Lucky took on Julia's dog. Fortunately there were no injuries, but apparently a rematch has been arranged between Julia and Ben.

 

             

 

         

 

In the Premier team match, the crowd was treated to some fine performances by Caribou players Acker and Phelan. Acker scored a tremendous try on a long run, while Phelan displayed not just the usual lineout consistency, but excellent open field running which he seems to have picked up on the Trinidad tour.

 

On the sidelines it was wonderful to see so many kids enjoying the pool and, after the Rugby, everyone had a good time at the BBQ and bar. We hope to pick it up again next week with games against Quebec City. The thirds open the season against the Montreal Wanderers, so get out to practice and make sure you are registered. Many thanks to Savannah, Skyler, and the twins for helping out at the BBQ.