The Westmount Ravens kicked off their 2010 season with a road trip to Trois-Rivières to battle Les Braves. With a mostly new player line up from last season the Ravens fought hard for victory but it proved too elusive in the first match of the year. As expected the Braves were an experienced unit who executed the rugby basics well and surged to a two try lead in the fist 20 mins. The Ravens stayed in touch on the score board through the accurate boot of new recruit Julien Marrel who was 100% on the day with 3 from 3 penalty kicks.
The Ravens behind at the half by two tries, came out for the second breathing fire and fought hard to get back in the match. They built pressure and gained territory well resulting in poor discipline from the Braves handing Julien his 3rd penalty and the Braves a yellow card. The Ravens seized on the one man advantage pinning the Braves behind their own 22m line which resulted in two unsuccessful breaches of the Braves try line. Barging prop Karl Frigan was very unlucky not to be awarded a try on the second crossing. Fitness proved to be the difference in the last 15 minutes with the Ravens defence stretched out wide allowing two tries in the last 10 minutes. Final score was 39-9(thereabouts).
Whilst it was a disappointing start to the season many lessons where learned and the Ravens remain confident of a successful 2010 season. Special mention to Kevin, Christophe & Benoit on playing their very first competitive rugby matches. Also congratulations to Man of the Match Tom ‘BC’ Edmeades with an inspiring lead from the front performance and never say die attitude. Special thanks to all the supporters, wives and girlfriends who made the trip out to Trois-Rivières to cheer on the Ravens in their season opener.
