The Junior Bantam Bulldogs faced off against the Westshore Warriors at McAdam Park, Sunday, Oct. 2 looking to build on a solid victory the week before against Oceanside.
On Sept. 25 the junior Bantam ‘Dogs worked their way to a 34-6 victory over the Oceanside Lions.
“After a loss to the Saanich Wolverines to start the season, this was an important win for our team. We executed with authority on both sides of the ball, and played well on special teams,” said head coach Trystan Ryder. “It was a great team win, and was awesome to see the group work as one.”
Veteran defensive players made the difference that game with defensive ends Judd Sheen and Brayden Screaton shutting the Lions running game down early. Linebacker William Bahen, and cornerback Matthew Dadswell had great games with key tackles that led to turnovers.
On offence, tailback Jaipaul Bains took control of the ground game early, ultimately scoring three touchdowns in what Ryder said was “close to a flawless” game.
Fullback Judd Sheen was a force, both carrying the ball and providing blocks. Quarterback Domenic Reeves was cool under pressure, and spread the ball around with ease. Reeves connected with wide receiver Adam Troy and wingback Mason Reeves for some big yards through the air. On a huge push from our offensive line Reeves was able to drive his way into the end zone for his first touchdown of the season.
Things weren’t clicking as well on Oct. 2, however, as the Bulldogs were unable to continue the momentum into their game against the Warriors.
“This was not our week,” Ryder admitted. “We played a very talented Westshore team that came ready to play. Although we lost the game, the final score did not tell the tale of the tape. On defence, we kept the score close for the first half. We forced multiple turnovers after the warrior offence failed to convert on third down. Huge tackles from Screaton, and Sheen forced the warriors to go to their passing game.”
Defensive tackle Atlas Ryder did his best to put pressure on the Westshore quarterback, and came up with one quarterback sack, and was in on three tackles on the day.
“We struggled on offence in the first quarter. Fumbles and missed blocks put a stop to our running attack early. The second quarter we started to gel,” coach Ryder said.
The Bulldogs went in to halftime down 14-0.
“As always, we will take lessons learned in this game, and work hard in practice to eliminate the mistakes,” Ryder said.
Not only did they lose the game 22-0, but they also lost a player as well.
“Our team suffered a devastating loss as tailback Mica Kendrick suffered a season ending break to his arm. Mica is an explosive ball carrier, who’s shifty moves rarely see him take big hits. Our team will miss his talents on the field, but will take everything we can from his positive attitude on the bench for the remainder of the season.”
The jr bantams play next on Oct. 8 in Comox.