Wednesday's Ruck & Maul

January 21, 2026 Posted in News / Victoria BC / Rugby Club / Prems / Men's Reserve Div / CW Rugby / B.C. Rugby / Fifteens / Senior Men

Tough Opponent Initiates Second Half.

CW men will begin their “second half” on Saturday when both teams will face the visiting Ravens. UBCOB are somewhat of an enigma this year with their Div. 1 team, a perennial finalist, winless to date! It is hard to fathom how a club’s Premier team can be in second place yet there is such a discrepancy with their bench performance. Ravens Premier men are always a force with their ability to attract ‘visiting players’. Add this to nigh on a decade of Carson Clan, strong supplemental support, and you have the reason.

CW open the campaign by welcoming Vikes graduating captain, Merlin M’Cloud. Merlin’s arrival helps cover the injury recuperation of loosies, Ollie Nott and Daff Thomas. Also in the forwards, Jack Wallace returns from the Land of Oz with a team championship under his belt. Jace Peters is back in own, Mason Pederson is available for a few more games, and Antonio Corbin is returning from injury to strengthen the pack.

Further, we welcome home, Liam Poulton, back from the Bengaluru Bravehearts of the Pro Sevens initial league season in India. Liam notched five (?) tries in the league and his club finished in fourth place. Liam was a very talented player in age grade at CW, although he never really got much of a “look-in” with the Pride.

There is no news of Grady Bowd overcoming his final game injury in December, however, should he be able to link with Chris Gammage, it is a #9/10 to be aware of. If Easson can be used elsewhere than #10, Tait playing good rugby, and Rinkley-Krinkle healthy, Gus, Zec, Poulton and AJ will add some punch. Should all remain healthy, this pundit is prepared to opine that we could look for some upsets.

On Saturday the Divvies at 4 – 4 should notch a win against the winless Birds. There will be depth to spare in the opener with a myriad of hands a-waving. Weather looks good. See you on the balcony with The 16TH. Cheer responsibly. Last minute selections may be posted before game time.