VICTORIA – The University of Victoria Vikes men's rugby squad were unable to carry over last week's momentum, Mar. 29, falling to a fit Castaway Wanderers squad that capitalized on increased size and speed across the board to hand a depleted Vikes squad a 53-12 loss.
 
STANDINGS  / LEAGUE SCORERS
 
With several Vikes absent due to a combination of national team commitments and injuries, the Wanderers were able to post repeated tries throughout the game, scoring the first three scores of the game off tries from Riley Ilnicki, Adam Kleeburger and Mike Fuailefau.
 
Kane Wyatt and Vikes Rookie of the Year nominee Crosby Stewart posted tries for the Vikes, while Pat Kay followed up Crosby's try with a conversion. Wyatt had a second opportunity early in the first half to post a try but could not keep a grasp on the ball to finish off the play for the Vikes
 
"I was obviously disappointed we lost," said Vikes assistant coach Rick Farrally. "Giving the circumstances I thought our guys played with a lot of courage, our guys played with a lot of heart."
 
Featuring many of the Vikes Div. 1 Norseman, the Vikes played hard until the whistle, impressing Farrally despite the final score line.
 
"In particular, our back row played a great game," explained Farrally. "They were great and their ability to tackle today was impressive, it was unbelievable how many tackles they made."
 
The Vikes will now return home to Wallace Field to play their penultimate match of the season against the UBCOB Ravens, Apr. 5 at 2:45 p.m.