Under extremely hot temperatures the Buccs made their way to Cobourg last Sunday, playing a rare non Saturday game in part thanks to an Canada vs Usa International match held in Kingston on the Saturday. Unfortunately the off day caused some schedule problems for a number of players, leaving the Buccs with only a first team side to field against the Saxons.

Going against the 3-0 Cobourg side, the Buccs entered the match determined to play a strong game, with every intention of handing the Saxons their first loss of the season. It quickly became apparent the Buccs came to play, beginning the match with calculated plays, lots of communication and tight forward rucking to keep the ball in possession. Soon however, Cobourg managed to find a gap in the Buccs defense and found the try line twice before half. Never quitting, the Buccs battled back scoring a try of their own, with some great possession by the forwards at the line, followed by a strong back run from Duane Farrell after a handoff from fly half Colin Alexander. The Buccs followed up on this with yet another try scored on a great run by Joey Neglia to bring the score within 2 points. Credit to Cobourg however for not giving up either, and managing to score two more tries of their own in the second half with some break out runs from their back line. The crushing heat and tough play saw a number of Buccs go off with injuries, causing a shortening of the bench and a few players filling roles out of their normal positions. With a fighting spirit the Buccs managed a final try punched in by Dan ‘Snuggles’ Mossip Balkwill, leaving the final score at Cobourg 26, Buccs 17.

Afterwards the teams retired back to the Saxons bar, the King George Inn to enjoy some post game beverages and to announce each team’s man of the match. Honours for the day for the Buccs went to prop Andy Gourley, playing a full 80 minutes of hard fought, hot forward rucking rugby. Thanks to Cobourg for their hospitality, and for a great game. We’ll certainly look forward to the rematch later in the season.

The Buccs now look ahead to our next game against the new to the division Georgian Bay Titans next Saturday in Collingwood. A reminder practice continues Tuesday and Thursday this week at Sunnybrook.

The Toronto Buccaneers will also be fielding our first ever U16 junior side sometime this Saturday morning against Brampton. Location and time are still TBD, however stay tuned as we would love to see as many people as able come out to support our newest additions to the club and help cheer them on.

See you on the pitch.