Match Recap: Trinity Western University

WWU travelled north of the border for a non-conference game against the Trinity Western University Spartans. The weather was wet, but the playing conditions were not a factor. The Langley Events Centre Stadium provided an excellent venue for some rugby.

Western traveled with 27 players and were able to play 10 members of the undefeated "Killer B's." The Vikings took an 11-0 lead into the half, much to the surprise of the home team Spartans. Eli Ashmann, playing in the centers, scored a brilliant try from 40 meters as he ran passed his opposite number and turned on the jets to score in the corner. The conversion was missed, but George Pritchard  accurately kicked two penalty goals to give Western an 11-0 lead going into the half.

The game plan going in was to play everyone and unload the bench. Both teams had an agreement to play more that the normal 23-player roster allowed. This plan proved to be successful as Western managed to baptize 10 B-side players, providing them the opportunity to gain valuable experience against a talented opposition. TWU had a similar game plan but subbed in more A side players, which turned the game around in their favor. The biggest factor was the scrummaging, where they quickly became dominant and Western received four penalties as TWU scrummaged for penalties.  

TWU scored two trys in the last twenty minutes to take a 14-11 lead. George Pritchard hit another penalty goal to bring the score to 14-14 at the 65 minute mark.  Trinity's strategy of scrumming for penalties was the difference as the Vikings were again penalized at the set piece. TWU hit the kick, and that was all that was needed for them to gain a 17-14 win over the Vikings. WWU had one more chance to tie the game with a penalty kick just outside the 22m line but elected to go for the win. After a couple of running phases, Western knocked on and the game was over.

Winning is fun but it is not the point. Wanting to win is the point!

Next up is the Cascade Cup against Central Washington University in Ellensburg Friday night under the lights. KO is 7:00 pm.