We have come to expect a real battle every time Langley clashes with Surrey and the games on Saturday lived up to the billing.
The first division match was a sloppy affair that started on a muddy field and ended in a swamp. Through the knock-ons and mishandlings that always accompany a wet game, it was tough for either team to generate the scoring that they would have liked. In the end, Langley’s try, convert, and penalty kick was enough to outdo Surrey and their 2 penalties and steal a 10-6 win away from the home team.
The men in second division did not have the same fortune. Surrey came up with 2 early tries before Langley found their legs but that proved to be too much for our boys in green to overcome. Despite the fact that Langley was never able to close the gap on that early lead, the game never felt like it was too far out of reach and they battled hard until the end. Fans were treated to a good showcase on young talent on both sides.
While each side was able to celebrate a win, there was another reason to celebrate. Surrey’s annual “Ruck For A Cure” match was said to have raised over $10,000 for the BC Cancer society.
Alert! This was scheduled as a home game and now it is in Abbotsford. See the map for location.
Though Langley came as conquers it was the paper chase that secured the bragging rights for the days activities. The difference in the men today was confidence. Langley’s new found unity shined brightly today as each man took ownership over their roles.
The fire in Langley’s belly, the passion in their bones and thirst for success drove them to take possession of Langley’s wins today.
First Division kept the Sharks at bay with Langley’s fierce and confident passing game. Over and over again their passing kept them flirting with the goal line. Steady and with constant pressure Langley didn’t hesitate to answer the call to return the ball and advance.
First Division squad was down at the twenty minute marker. Langley’s come back was separated by which seemed to be a million yards. Defeats mocking glare stirred their hunger and fueled the pressure on the Sharks. Hard fought rucks and clean passing lead Langley into the promise land securing the paper trail victory.
The stakes are higher and the value deeper in the waters of First Division. Each swift movement lands with gravity that pulls on the heart and mind. With pride and fierce action came emotion and boiling blood which tipped the scales in Langley’s favour.
Second Division let loose today from all reservations as the jitters of inexperience melted away as the sun broke free above the field vaporizing the cloud of timidity. Langley’s identity as a team blossomed in the light of their freed minds found in the dedication to practice and training.
Langley came to play today and it showed. Through the veil of thought and desire came the possession and acquisition of their first recorded win. Up two try’s and keeping the Sharks from penetrating Langley’s goal line the team seemed to experience new ground in confidence and cadence.
The day would expose Langley to trial by fire as Bayside would retaliate thru demanding pressures in the set scrums, fast paced running game and passing technique. Unshaken was the Second Division squad as this new found anchor and foundation birthed another try and made the final score 22 to 17.
Second Division Final
Richmond 22
Langley 7
First Division Final
Richmond 36
Langley 10
The day seemed to sap with anticipation of a early cleaning but the clutter of the corners that have been left unattended proved to be the difference. A strong and confident Langley team showed great levels of desire and drive yet the pull did not go their way.
Richmond was a steady and experienced opponent and their tenacity proved the advantage. Langley was not so easily conquered as they continued with the barrages of attacks but their efforts proved to be well matched as they marched up field. Langley seemed like the young man pushing to hard to get the girl and ended up going home lonely. The men remain eager to recover and get back to the basics.
Meraloma dropped out of Premier to compete in Div 1 and 2 rugby this season so the Langley men knew that they would be facing stiff competition. The second division showed early promise by holding the opposition scoreless for most of the first half but Meraloma soon found their legs and exposed some weaknesses in this young team and were able to run up the score. Despite the lopsided result spirits were unusually high and the boys in green and gold feel encouraged about their ability to gel together.
The first division squad had a closer match and looked competitive at all time despite being outscored by 3 tries. The younger guys showed well against a tough opponent so we will forward to watching our veterans mold the young talent as the season progresses.
Boat race record 1-0!
