The Comox Valley Kickers men鈥檚 team travelled to the mainland this weekend for a highly anticipated showdown against Richmond RFC, rekindling the rivalry from the 2023 BCRU Division 3 final.

The showdown occurred at King George Park and the atmosphere crackled with anticipation. Last year鈥檚 final saw the Kickers emerge victorious in a nail-biting finish, but fate took an unforeseen turn this time, with the Kickers falling 10-42. Tries were scored by Kai Mills and Will Perry.

From the outset, it was evident that this Richmond team was a different force altogether. They came into the match with renewed vigour and scored two quick tries back-to-back. They had a strategic game plan that kept the defending champions on the back foot.

As the game progressed, the Kickers tried to mount a comeback but had to play shorthanded due to a yellow card, forcing the team to play with only 14 players for 10 minutes. Having to focus more on defence didn鈥檛 allow for many offensive opportunities. Momentum never seemed to be on their side. In their many attempts to surge forward, an unforced error such as an errant pass or dropped ball would erase their hard-earned metres.

Captain Justin Thomson expressed disappointment but remained optimistic.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a tough loss, but we鈥檒l regroup, learn from this defeat, and come back stronger,鈥� he said. 鈥淲e will work on the things we need to. This setback will only fuel our determination for the next game and for the spring season.鈥�

The Kickers currently sit third out of 18 teams in the BCRU Men鈥檚 Division 3 league. The Kickers are back in action on Saturday, Dec. 2 at Cumberland Village Park to face off against Castaway Wanderers with a 11:15 a.m. kick-off.

The Comox Valley Kickers RFC is continually recruiting players. No experience is necessary. For the most up-to-date information, visit