An article by Doug Whidden.
After a poor performance in their last outing versus Capilano, the Burnaby Lake Premier XV upped their work rate around the paddock and came away with a decisive 25 –17 victory over previously unbeaten James Bay.
James Bay opened the scoring with a brilliant individual try by fullback Dan Harlow. After a clever chip kick, the speedy fullback regathered his own kick and outran some very ordinary Burnaby defence. However, that would be the lone bright spot for the Bays as long serving Canadian international, Bobby Ross missed the conversion.
After a spell of some very spirited and well played rugby, Burnaby strung together 10 phases and showed great continuity which resulted in Ryan Nuefeld crossing the try line. Jeff Lloyd slotted the conversion to put Burnaby into the lead, a lead they would never relinquish. Burnaby added to its lead via some bullocking runs through the heart of James Bays defence by Ryan Banks, Colin McKenzie and Pat Riodan. This created an overlap on the left wing where Chris Arnold showed his strength and finishing ability by dotting down in the corner. Jeff Lloyd made the conversion from the left touchline to put Burnaby ahead 14 –5 at the half.
The second half started out much like the first with both teams keen to move the ball through the hands. The Bays talent laden backline was putting the Burnaby backs under great pressure. Canadian internationals Nik Witkowski and Fred Asselin pierced Burnaby’s defensive wall on a couple occasions only to be cut down by some superb cross field cover defence by fellow international Ryan Banks.
After some sustained pressure deep inside Burnaby’s half, referee Ian Trevor saw fit to send off replacement lock Jack Day due to some over zealous use of the boot. To make matters worse for the visitors, they would be forced to play with 13 players as fellow lock Dave Ramsey was binned shortly thereafter. Burnaby would take full advantage of James Bay’s indiscretions by pinning James Bay deep in their end. A subsequent driving maul off an uncontested lineout resulted in Man of the Match Pat Riodan capping off an outstanding game by crossing the James Bay line to put Burnaby ahead 19-5. The conversion was unsuccessful. More Burnaby pressure would lead to a Jeff Lloyd penalty and dropkick by flyhalf Rich Kanazawa.
Burnaby seemed to be home and dry, however James Bay refused to stop working. They expanded their already expansive game and took advantage of numerous Burnaby penalties to score a fine try while still 2 men short. With the score 25-12 and James Bay restored to 14 men, the home team dug in for what would be a thrilling final 10 minutes. Wave after wave of James Bay attackers were turned away by some strong Burnaby defence. Burnaby went searching for that elusive 4th try and subsequent bonus point but were denied on several occasions. With the final whistle about to go, James Bays’ hard work in attack finally paid off with a try by Fred Asselin on the final play of the game. With the bonus point still in the cards for the visitors, Bob Ross’ conversion sailed wide of the left-hand post. Referee Ian Trevor blew his whistle for full time and Burnaby Lake walked away with a much needed and well-deserved victory.
In other action at the Burnaby Lake Sports Complex, Burnaby Lake handled Pocomo 26 -10 in First Div. and 15-8 in Thirds. The Burnaby Lake Premier Women lost a hard fought game to Capilano 17 – 12 at Klahanie Park.
Upcoming Events at the Clubhouse
Halloween Dance – Oct. 26th
Reverse Draw – Nov. 16th
