Tale of the Weekend
VICTORIA – Back in Canada after ten days spent in Australia, the UVic Vikes men's rugby team will try to claw their way back to .500 in BC Premier League action at Wallace Field on February 24.
Playing the Vancouver Rowing Club at 2:30 p.m., the Vikes will be trying to make it two wins in a row at home and bring their record to 2-2 on the season.
Both teams will be looking to grab a victory and launch their way up the standings, with UVic currently in fifth place and Rowers in a tie for seventh.
Rowers finished sixth in the Lower Mainland Premier League's fall season, recording two wins and five losses.
Last Time Out
The Vikes weren't able to pick up a win on their Australia tour, losing to both Souths RFC (43-39) and the University of Brisbane (20-14).
"A lot of younger guys got a taste of playing for the Vikes against good competition," said Vikes head coach
Doug Tate of the trip. "It's always good to mix the older guys with the younger guys, it makes your team stronger."
Due to a colder than normal winter on the Lower Mainland, Rowers have played just one game so far in the Premier League.
They were defeated 30-8 by the Castaway Wanderers last weekend.
"They were right in the game with Castaways so you can't take them lightly," said Tate. "We've actually struggled with them over the past three or four years, they work hard and are physical."
Coach's Take
Doug Tate, Vikes head coach
"Rowers is a pretty physical team, they've had a lot of trouble with the rain and snow in Vancouver. We have an advantage because we've been able to practice outside since the beginning of January and play some games, they've only had one."
"There should be no excuses in the fitness department. If we play a high-tempo game that should go to our advantage I would hope."
"If we can continue to play stiffer defensively I think the rest will take care of itself. Not to let in the soft tries will be key, we took a step back in that regard in Australia."
Game Information
Saturday, Feb. 25 – 2:30 p.m. – vs. Vancouver Rowing Club, Wallace Field Victoria, B.C. – Buy tickets at govikesgo.com/tickets
