A dominant defensive performance and an opportunistic offence led the Langley Rams to a season-opening victory.
The Rams capitalized on eight Okanagan Sun turnovers — turning those into 35 points — as they routed the host team 42-14 on Saturday at the Apple Bowl in Kelowna in the season opener for the B.C. Junior Football Conference.
“Our defence definitely shone in the game,” said Langley coach Jeff Alamolhoda.
“We relied on them to get some turnovers and big plays for us and they came through.”
The offence was also efficient in turning those turnovers into points as well as sustaining some long-scoring drives, he added.
“The playmakers made plays for us.”
Following back-to-back fumbles by Sun quarterback Cam Bedore on first quarter drives — caused by hits from Adam Konar and Evan Foster, respectively, with Alex Agnoletto and Arie Nakagawa recovering the loose pigskin — running back Daniel Xavier scored on a pair of short touchdown runs less than a minute apart.
Quarterback Greg Bowcott then scored on a touchdown run and later connected with Nick Downey on a 30-yard score.
Konar capped off a great first half by scoring on a 27-yard interception return and Langley led 35-7 at the half.
Kyle Albertini had the last score for the Rams on a fourth-quarter rushing touchdown.
Konar finished with 32 defensive points, the fourth-highest in a single game in league history. The outside linebacker had two interceptions and two forced fumbles, two sacks and four tackles.
“He definitely showed what he can do and what his abilities are,” Alamolhoda said.
Nakagawa, who led the team with five tackles, also had an interception while Daniel Sharpe had a fumble recovery.
The Rams are on the road again on Saturday in Nanaimo when they face the defending league champion Vancouver Island Raiders (1-0).
