RHS went into this game with a O-1 record with a loss to unbeaten MHS while ODC had a couple of victories and were 2-0.

The game was always going to be a close one as a good rivalry exists between the two teams. The 100 or so fans at ODC field were treated to a great game that went down to the final whistle.

Riverview were  up 14-12 at the half on tries by centres Siobhan Murphy and Brett Cole. One of the highlights and the ultimate decider was that RHS kicker, Maggie MacPhee, kicked both her converts in the first half.

ODC maintained most of the possession during the entire game as they rucked extremely effectively. RHS had to be patient and were ultimately rewarded with the inevitable turnover and it always seem to come near their own goal line. Forced to live off only the ODC scraps, RHS made the very best of what ball they secured.

RHS coach Melanie Hughes praised the tireless effort of the back row of Karena McKay, Hannah Sears and Maggie MacPhee. “We had some leadership out there today from our grade 12 girls and in the end they were amazing”.

In the second half it was Jata McCabe at fly half who was setting  up Siobhan Murphy and Brett Cole again and they cashed in for two long range tries for RHS. Again, Maggie MacPhee nailed both converts.

The game closed out with ODC knocking on the RHS goal line. ODC crossed the goal line no less than 4 times but the RHS back row were able to prevent the ball carrier from touching down for the try.  Referree Adam Campbell indicated the ball was held up and RHS held on for the victory.

Coach Hughes finished by congratulating ODC. “That was an exciting game from teams with two different but very effective styles.”  RHS improves their record to 1-1 and hosts Miramichi Valley HS at RHS Field on Thursday @ 5:30 PM.

Try Scores for ODC were Celina Hebert, Rehema Sinzinkayo, Emily Donelle and Emily Chamberlain. Donelle converted two kicks and had some other booming runs.  1st year player second row player Jabara was threatening on every touch of the ball and was unlucky to find space enough to score.  Rarely have I see a lock so dynamic with ball in hand.

This sets up a rematch of last years provincial final on Thursday where both ODC and BMHS enter the game with a loss each.  No doubt that too will be a great game.

Scoring Summary: ODC Celina Hebert – 1 try Rehema Sinzinkayo – 1 try Emily Chamberlain – 1 try Emily Donelle -1 try / 2 converts RHS Siobhan Murphy – 2 tries Brett Cole – 2 tries Maggie Macphee – 4 converts

Thanks to Bob and Roxanne for the information, Head coaches Mel and Yves and the referee Curly.