Match Report
Sacramento Valley Rugby Conference Playoffs: CBHS JV 12 - Jesuit JV 27
Great stuff again guys. Appreciated the squad coming together this week at Cordova, Wednesday at training, and again Thursday first at Ashton Park, and then caravaning up the hill to Jesuit. I felt we keep things fun, but performed at a high level, such that we proved we were prepared and professional in our approach. I was quite proud to take the visitor's sideline at Jesuit with you guys; coaches, parent and players alike.
We went down 5-0, and then up 7-5, down 8-7 (at the half), and then up 12-8 (Perez never misses that kick!) after furious surge that Jesuit tried and tried and tried again to repel. A Jesuit forward was sent off for 10 minutes, sin binned for repeated offsides.
CB was in the the try zone a few times, only to have the ref call a "held up" in goal (where the defending team prevents the ball from being touched down.) Through great defence and attacking, the game was still contestable until Jesuit scored on the last play of the game. Final score at was 12-27.
On the day, many players gave mighty contributions, Justin and Joe Malm as usual, as well as our Mighty Mexican forwards Daniel, Big Ben and Sauce. But Joe Pane played with focus and passion that had a big impact too. Robert Kwoka, Leo Vellutini, Luca, Miguel, Spottiswood, Jeremy and Gilbert all played hard and tough up front. I felt Garrett played his best game yet, and we really can't wait to have him, and all the others around for next year.
The coaches agree our "Man of the Match" was clearly Club President Nate Bollinger. He was so destructive in the first half, Jesuit had to replace their starting scrumhalf. Nate's hustle and drive are totally infectious, and we can't be any luckier than we are to have him around. Nate did his darndest to continue to press the game's pace right until the end, but by then Jesuit was effectively finding ways to attack away from him.
Ryan could be our best player by this time next year. I felt he did a lot of good stuff today, his tackling was sure. Connor, Albert, Joe Perez and Julian rounded out the Deep Three backs. There is lots of talent in this group, and these kids just need more time playing, and playing rugby together.
Brothers Rugby, we have accomplished a lot in this first season of play! The coaches love the attitude within the club, and really appreciate helping so many stud athletes find joy in playing rugby. We certainly hope our Seniors go on to play in College or with the local Men's team, and believe most will. As for the underclassmen, this will be your club now.