In a display of sheer dominance, the Comox Valley Kickers women鈥檚 rugby team delivered an impressive performance on a trip to the mainland to clash against RichLions, a combined side from Richmond RFC and Delta鈥檚 Brit Lions.

The opposing side had a shortage of players, meaning the game format had to change from 15-a-side with two forty-minute halves to 12-a-side with three 20-minute periods.

The change to the game format did not phase the Kickers as from the opening whistle, it was abundantly clear that the women were focused and determined. Their start was nothing short of overwhelming, as they swiftly seized control of the match and left no doubt as to the outcome, securing a remarkable victory with a final score of 83-7.

The match showcased an impressive display of skill and teamwork, particularly in the art of offloading, which proved to be instrumental in creating scoring opportunities. Captain Natalie Nguyen had the game鈥檚 opening try from a beautiful series of offloads. This try served as a catalyst, igniting a spark that opened up the floodgates for a deluge of scoring opportunities. Tries were then scored by outside centre Jess Nikkel and winger Sienna Stigant. The period ended with a great half-field run from 8-man, Audrey Jones. Cali McKay successfully added three converts. The Kickers held a commanding 26-0 lead after the first period, leaving Richmond struggling to find their footing.

Early in the second period, RichLions scored their lone try. In response to the opposing side putting points on the board, the Kickers surged forward with renewed intensity. Their relentless attack and formidable defence propelled them even further ahead, with two back-to-back tries scored by fullback McKay. Inside centre Danelle Campbell and winger Sophie Julien added one try each, with McKay converting three more kicks as the Kickers extended their lead to a staggering 50-7.

Nguyen added two more tries in the third period, with Stigant, Julien, and Nikkel adding one each. Nikkel successfully converted three out of four conversions.

Coach JB Nikkel expressed immense pride in the team鈥檚 performance, highlighting their dedication and hard work leading up to the match.

鈥淚t was a complete team effort,鈥� he said. 鈥淭he players all trusted the system, and all supported each other. Everyone gave their all on the field, and the result speaks volumes about their commitment.鈥�

Nguyen echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the unity and determination that propelled them to victory.

鈥淲e came into this match with a clear goal, and we executed our game plan flawlessly,鈥� she said. 鈥淭here are only two more regular season games before playoffs. We need to keep this momentum rolling.鈥�

Men get measure of redemption

In a highly anticipated rematch, the Comox Valley Kickers Men鈥檚 rugby team delivered a stellar performance against a familiar foe, the Castaway Wanderers (CW).

Having previously tied with their opponents in a closely contested battle at Cumberland Village Park, this time around at Windsor Park, the Kickers left nothing to chance, emerging victorious with an impressive scoreline of 53-38.

The game was a hard-fought battle as both sides refused to concede an inch of ground. Every try and conversion was hard-earned, with momentum swinging back and forth as neither team yielded an inch. Winger Stephen Hextall rose to the occasion by scoring a hat trick of tries. Kai Mills added two tries, and also successfully kicked four converts. Flanker Craig Whiley, prop Scott Wells, outside centre Devon Moore, and winger Cody Steeves added one try apiece.

Coach Tim Quek praised his team鈥檚 resilience and determination in the face of adversity, acknowledging the sheer intensity of the contest.

鈥淭his was a battle in every sense of the word. Both teams left everything they had on the field, and it鈥檚 a nod to our players鈥� hard work that we came out on top.鈥�

The victory not only provides a sense of redemption for the Comox Valley Kickers but also underscores their ability to thrive under pressure. As they continue their campaign, they carry with them the lessons learned from this hard-fought encounter, knowing that they have what it takes to overcome even the toughest challenges on their path to playoffs.