Friday 18th saw Carrickfergus U14s hosting Vikings RFC U14s from Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. The side are coached by former Carrick resident Dean McNally who was a proud dad as both sons Scott and Thomas took to the pitch to represent the Vikings. The touring side are on a preseason tour that saw them also playing Stirling County RFC and Stewart’s Melville from Scotland. Inspired by a pre match talk from the legendary Willie John Mcbride who watched the game the Vikings took to the pitch with a very big physical side with a range of experience in the playing of rugby union. The first 10 minutes saw the Vikings dominate both possession and territory culminating in a well taken try fittingly from Thomas McNally. The home side quickly realised that if they were to get a foothold in the game not only would they have to match the Vikings physicality but also look to exploit the space in the wider channels. To their credit the home side executed this perfectly running in 5 unanswered tries in the first half. The young team from Canada stuck to their task in the second half but Carrick were determined not to concede any further points and put in some big defensive hits. The Carrick back line continued to run at pace handling the ball crisply on what was a perfect night for running rugby. A number of further tries from the home resulted in a final score of 48-5. Following the game the coaching staff and players from both sides where joining by the Canadian Consulate Mr Ken Brundle for a post match meal that was enjoyed by all. New friendships have been forged and the The Vikings club president Johny Watkins finished of the nights proceedings by extending an invitation to host Carrickfergus RFC next season.
