Last Tuesday afternoon, a narrowly won match crowned the Salmon Arm junior rugby team as North Okanagan champions over the Clearwater juniors.
“This was a real advertisement for rugby! It was by far a game of outrageous skill, strength and commitment to the tackles between two fantastic teams,” says coach Greg Seed.
Salmon Arm’s tries were scored by Griffin Wilchuk and Luke Simmonds, who converted both, in addition to two penalty kicks.
The lead changed hands five times during the game with the score tied 20-20 at the end of normal time.
In extra time, Clearwater took the lead through a well-worked try but, Salmon Arm would not be denied as Luke Simmonds converted two penalty kicks to leave the score 26-25.
Phillip Smith, Dylan Nuttal and Thalon Gashler were outstanding in the forwards.
Providing the backline speed was Sam Lybeck, who had his best game in a SAS Jersey while Luke Simmonds displayed leadership and skill throughout.
“Best of all, this was a real team performance with every player in the squad stepping up to the challenge,” noted Seed.