The Yamba Buccaneers kicked of their season in dreary conditions on Saturday in a hard fought 13-12 loss to a well drilled Evans Heads outfit.
After looking thin on numbers in pre-season, the Buccs have recently been able to secure a wave of Pacific Island recruits who are in the local region on working visas for the year and keen for a game of rugby.
There was a great atmosphere at the ground with locals keen to come watch the new look Yamba outfit at Kane Douglas Rugby Field. There was also an influx of new Buccaneer supporters, with our new recruits bringing a busload of their mates which only added to the atmosphere.
The game was physical from the get go, with Evans scoring their early points through penalties, while Yamba was keen to show of its new flair in attack with some great free flowing rugby in damp conditions leading to a converted try in the first half.
In a see-sawing second half Evans utilised their bench and started to get some ascendancy in the set pieces, while the Buccs continued to attack from all parts of the field leading to a great backline try in canteen corner.
Some ill-discipline from Yamba gave Evans good field position in which they were able to get over for a converted try and take the lead late in the game. The Buccaneers attacked to the final whistle and had opportunities to win but unfortunately couldn’t break through a determined Evans Head outfit leaving the Killer Whales the winners.
In what was a close game with plenty of big contact, it was played in great spirits with both teams commenting after that it was a good result for rugby in the area. Thanks to all supporters and helpers on the day and we look forward to seeing everyone for our next home game against Ballina on the 18th of May.
Most importantly thanks to all our new recruits who have come together quickly and did the Buccaneers proud in their first outing.
Also, the Club will be holding a social event at the field on Wednesday, 24 April. It’s calling for all past players, parents, sponsors and supporters to attend the field for social games of touch, followed by dinner and drinks. Anyone with any connection to the Club – past or present – is welcome to attend. The festivities start at 6pm. Contact the Club for more information.