Warrior rugby face the challenge of injury

After two glorious wins, the men’s rugby team succumbed to the undefeated Guelph Gryphons on Saturday, Sept. 22, to a score of 34–5.

The game was interesting to say the least, as the game was nearly even at 5–0 in favour of Guelph by the end of the first half. During the second, however, Guelph burst through the Warrior lines while Ian Blackie would be the only one to score. It was unusual but from the inside, it was understandable.

“We have been dealing with a good number of injuries,” Josh Windsor, rugby coach, said. “Five starters are currently not playing and three others were playing hurt on Saturday.”

Wounded and not at full capacity, it’s easy to see how the strength of the team could not last the full 80 minutes. Windsor said that the young players can lose focus while injured players can’t keep up the intense play. That did not mean the men were outplayed, just that the mental errors in defence created opportunity for their opponents.

Windsor stays hopeful and confident in his team nonetheless, saying that “when we get healthy and fit, we will be able to compete with the best teams in the league.”

It was a tough loss to take though, especially after winning their last two in what seemed to be wide margins. For those who know the game of rugby, they know that the game can take a turn in the wrong direction and it’s hard to get back.

“In order to come back from a deficit you need to take chances, which often result in errors. This leads to games that look one sided on the scoreboard but are often much harder fought than they appear,” said Windsor.

The game is also intensely physical and most times win don’t come easy, no matter the score. As Windsor went on to say, the wins and losses aren’t that much different and that there are no easy games.

With the loss, the Warriors go to an even 2–2 record while the Gryphons are 4–0. The men will make their way to Kingston on Sept. 29 and play the Queen’s Gaels. Windsor is looking forward to the game and getting his team healthy.

“The OUA rugby season is a very short grueling struggle. Often the teams that come out at the end have the greatest depth and are able to survive the injuries they incur better than other teams.”

The Warriors are up for the challenge and will be putting forth their contention, striving for the playoffs and a medal.