Cowichan’s Breakers lock up berth in provincial tourney

A crushing victory over their last challenger last Thursday guaranteed the Frances Kelsey Breakers a berth on the B.C. senior boys rugby tournament. The Breakers routed the Mark R. Isfeld Ice 56-0 on their home pitch to lock up a place in provincials. Kelsey returned to the provincial tournament last year after a seven-year absence.

"The boys are pretty excited about going back to the B.C.s again," coach Tom Fogarty said.

Tyson Black scored once and made good on all eight conversion opportunities for a total of 21 points. Karl Mattison and Connor McGarry had two tries apiece, while Matt Butson, Braemon Conville, Masaru Evans-Kimoto and Alex Hedley scored singles.

Conary (Conky) Neligan was named Player of the Game for his excellent performance, dominating the Isfeld forwards at every opportunity.

"It was a real team effort on the day and it was great to see the things we’ve been working on in training come to fruition in the game," Fogarty said. "[Head coach Craig Schmidt] and I are very proud of the teamwork and dedication the lads have displayed, and we are looking forward to seeing the boys have some fun at provincials."

Kelsey will play Brentwood College School this Thursday at 4 p.m. in a placement game to determine if they will be seeded in the top eight or bottom eight for the final tournament.

Cowichan Valley Citizen