MONDAY'S MUSINGS

As kids, these two peers always found themselves on opposite teams to ensure equality and competition. During Age Grade Rep teams, they were on the same team and so it came to pass, last Friday.  Once again – Sophie and Caroline, on the same army, against New Zealand.

The Canadian women were full value for their win over NZ in the RWC semi-final on Friday.  #9, Pelletier was deservedly W-o-M although every player who earned minutes was superb.  Sophie contributed fourteen points, Paquin played eighty, Schell was close to masterful at #15, and Tessier played her best game of the tournament in this writer’s op.

So, it’s off to Twickers and some 80,000 pre-sold tickets!!  Expectations will be high from players and fans alike.  Canada will match up stronger than France did against England. The two teams play a very similar pattern, so performance, errors, and discipline will be the difference makers. We may have titillated readers who like a “flutter” last week with pre-game odds. Ladbroke’s bookies have England as eight-point favourites and 2/7 odds for the Final.  Canada would be a good bet at 5/2 or eight points start.  Go, you beauties!

The semi-final had viewers from around the world.

                          Here, CW youth on their way to the Kamloops Sevens, screamed their support!


This event has grown into an almost iconic “must” on the calendar for youth teams in BC & Alberta.  This year there were 128 teams of girls and boys from U14 to U18 registered for this “pre-season” competition.


Of the 128 teams and some 1500 players, CW results were commendable. The U14 Boys saw the Red team finish third out of 13 teams. The U16 Boys Competitive Div saw CW finish 2nd/8, and the U18 Boys Elite Div saw CW top the table of ten teams. So, a huge shout out to players, coaches, managers and parent supporters.  Well done, all.




ELSEWHERE. 

Canada’s NSMT lost to Tonga in the third-place match at the Pacific Nations Championship hosted in Salt Lake City, by a score of 35 – 24.  Tonga shot out to an early 14 – 0 lead which Canada matched by the quarter mark.  Tonga hit the front again, but it was close, 28 – 24, with a quarter to play.  The game had mixed revues from the captain and coach, and it was obviously a result that does not draw too much excitement.

 

UPCOMING.  

Our faux pas.  Last week we informed readers of matches against Meralomas, Comox and James Bay. We were one week ahead of ourselves!  Too much excitement at RWC.  Men’s Prems at Connaught and Women at Comox, with Divvies Women at James Bay.