The Ridge Meadows Bruins men’s rugby team has been dominating the Lower Mainland Third Division this season, getting off to a 4-1 start after defeating Abbotsford RFC 36-24 at home at Telosky Stadium on Saturday.
Team captain Josh Ladd said the Bruins have seen an increase in numbers this season thanks to the return of a number of veteran players and the addition of some new to the sport.
“In years past, we’ve had lots of guys come out at the start of the season, and by this point, were down to 10 or 15 guys,” said Ladd. “This year, everyone’s still here.”
That’s given the team options, including having a full compliment of coaches on the sideline directing play.
“Everyone has been part of the success of the team,” said Ladd. “Even the guys who don’t get the ball much, they’re getting dirty in the rucks, making sure we get the ball back.”
The Bruins got out to an early lead Saturday against Abbotsford, only to have Abbotsford pull ahead by a try in the late going.
The Bruins would not be denied, however, as they rallied ate in the game to ensure the 36-24 win.
Scoring tries for the Bruins were Ladd, Courtland Kerr, Reed Nelson, Julian Benvenuti, Logan Duke, and Keaton Riach.
Nelson was also successful on three of six conversion kicks.
Bruins face the 1-4 Surrey Beavers this Saturday on the road at Sullivan Park.
Also in action last Saturday was the Bruins’ U-17 squad, who lost 47-12 to Vancouver’s Meralomas.
The Bruins fought hard despite the rain, with Marlin Rheel and Ethan Marin scoring the team’s tries.
Next up for the U-17 squad is United Rugby Club this Sunday at home at Thomas Haney Secondary School at 12:30 p.m.
The Bruins’ Tier 2 senior women’s team takes on Brit Lions this Saturday at Thomas Haney at 10 a.m.
• The Ridge Meadows Bruins are looking for players of all ages, genders, and skill level for the spring season, which gets under way in January. Men’s and women’s teams practice at Merkley Park at 7:30 p.m.Tuesday evenings, and at 7:30 p.m. at Westview Secondary School on Thursdays. New members are always welcome. Those interested can contact sukhi@bruinsrugbyclub.com (youth and men’s) or alison@bruinsrugbyclub.com (women’s) for more information.