First XV Clashes with Oak Bay

As expected, our match against Oak Bay was a tough and gritty encounter. The First XV really put their best foot forward and came out to compete.  Despite a substantially smaller pack, our forwards did remarkably well in offensive set piece and defence around the breakdown. As well, the back line did a good job of spreading the ball and playing to our strengths.  The match was very close with a 6-point margin by the end of match. We took the lead early in the first half with a well-taken counter attack by winger Ian S, Privett ‘15. With a converted try ahead, we really started to put pressure on them. Unfortunately, we weren't able to convert these opportunities into points with a couple of passes just not going our way.  Oak Bay came back with a penalty kick to make it 7-3 at halftime. The second half followed in similar fashion with both teams really battling it out. The game then started to open up with more ball movement and repetitive phase play. Oak Bay was eventually able to score in the corner after multiple phases of hard defence put up by Brentwood. The try being unconverted, we were one point down and felt that we were really still in it.  We produced 3 or 4 legitimate scoring opportunities, but again were denied by that final pass or unlucky knock on. After a breakdown of play, Oak Bay scored in the corner yet again very late in the match.  Brentwood stayed in it to the last whistle and gave a valiant effort. I am very proud of the boys and happy that we were able to take another step forward in preparation for the provincials.  Aaron, H, Captain, Privett '15