2015 Canadian Rugby Championship Preview

The Canadian Rugby Championship kicks off on Sunday in an abbreviated fashion, with four regional sides competing in only two knock-out games due to the upcoming World Cup preparations. For fringe players hoping to make that squad, this is their last chance to impress, with head coach Kieran Crowley due to announce his training roster immediately following the tournament.

While the vast majority of Canada’s professional players, both overseas and on the sevens roster, will be absent, there remains a number of individuals expected to be on the plane to England, and a few more who could make things very interesting at the final selection meeting.

The Ontario Blues enter as five-time defending champions, and favorites once again. Can the Wolf Pack raise their game at home? Will the Bears or the Rock upset the cart? One thing is for sure, it will be an intruguing few days for Canadian rugby fans.

 

All games will take place at the Calgary Rugby Park, and will be streamed at the link below:

http://livestream.com/rugbycanadaofficial

 

FIXTURES

June 28 – Blues v Rock (13:00 local)
June 28 – Wolf Pack v Bears (15:00 local)

July 1 – Loser Game 1 v Loser Game 2 (11:00 local)
July 1 – Winner Game 1 v Winner Game 2 (13:00 local)

 

 

BEARS

There’s no question the Bears are under pressure to perform, having struggled to shine in recent years in the competition and coming away with only two wins last season. As usual they will be without nearly all of their international players, and with the BC domestic season having wrapped up weeks ago will be at a slightly short of recent match exposure. A new head coach and a number of new players can also be problematic and will test their adaptability.

On the positive side they feature some talented youngsters paired with a few classy veterans that should make things interesting, particularly in the knock-out format. They will go in as heavy underdogs to the Wolf Pack, but with nothing to lose you write them off at your peril.

The Bears have made two late changes to the roster. Jorden Sandover-Best is now available to travel and has been added at scrumhalf, while in the front row Noah Barker has replaced first choice hooker Alex Mascott. Barker was used at loosehead prop last season, but also plays hooker, where he lined up for James Bay in the 2014 CDI Premier League final.

CAPTAIN: Adam Kleeberger is a household name for Canadian fans. He’s had more than a fair share of injuries since the last World Cup, but is keen to do battle once more. Not a big talker, he will lead by fearless example.

KEY PLAYERS: Loosehead prop John Braddock hails from New Zealand and looks very useful in both the scrum and the tight-loose. Last year’s captain Callum Morrison is a big target at the lineout and a punishing tackler. Openside flank Chase Kelliher is a real nuisance at the breakdown and a tireless defender. The heavy boot of flyhalf Guiseppe du Toit will be crucial to keep the scoreboard ticking over. Outside him, look for the pace and playmaking ability of Sean Ferguson, wherever he is playing.

ONE TO WATCH: One of the bright lights for the Bears last season, Caleb Hansen isn’t the biggest winger but has plenty of pace and good balance. In terms of pure finishing ability, he will be right up there with the best in the competition.

HEAD COACH: Dean Murten (1st year)

“We anticipated losing the sevens guys, and a few others that were unfortunately unavailable, but we’ve still got a strong group of players to work with. We’ve had some lively training sessions and I’m looking forward to seeing that in the games. It’s an exciting group to be around.

“Having a fit Adam [Kleeberger] is a real boost to the team and Callum [Morrison] is just back from New Zealand and looks very sharp. John [Braddock] is a good addition to the front row, and we’ve got a number of excellent young players in the backline.

“I have no doubt we’re going in as underdogs, but we’ll do our talking on the pitch. Some people have questioned our physicality and I’ve challenged our forwards to step up and win the collisions. It we can get some quality ball, we have serious speed in our outside backs and they will cause anyone problems.”

FORWARDS: Ryan Ackerman (Burnaby), John Braddock (Castaway Wanderers), Anthony Luca (Burnaby), Cody McClary (Port Alberni), Noah Barker (James Bay), Andrew Lackner (Burnaby), Sam Clark (UBC), Callum Morrison (UBCOB), Alex Boyd (Meraloma), Luke Campbell (UVic), Thyssen de Goede (James Bay), Chase Kelliher (Capilano), Adam Kleeberger (capt., Castaway Wanderers)

BACKS: James Pitblado (UVic), Jorden Sandover-Best (UBC), Guiseppe du Toit (UVic), Kimi Vunituraga (Burnaby), Sean Ferguson (UBCOB), Jeke Gotegote (Burnaby), Adam Timler (Burnaby), Caleb Hansen (Rowing Club), Karsten Leitner (UBC), Nolan McAllister (UBCOB), Crosby Stewart (UVic), Keenan Horton (Castaway Wanderers)

 

 

BLUES

With four consecutive MacTier Cup trophies in the cabinet, Ontario enter as clear favorites to take the title again, but are far from shoe-ins. They lost their final home game of the season to the Wolf Pack and needed a big score against the Rock to pull their feet out of the fire. The Blues won in Edmonton last season, can they do the same in Calgary?

The squad already boasts numerous ‘A’ and age-grade internationals, and have added Aaron Carpenter and Phil Mackenzie to the cause. They are the most cohesive team in the tournament and have strength in depth at every position. While not unbeatable, it will take a serious effort to stall the defending champs.

The Blues have been forced into two late changes on their travel roster. Matt Alexander has replaced Shawn Windsor at flyhalf, while Tom Dolezel is replaced by u20 tighthead Matt Tierney. Dolezel may yet rejoin the group in time for Wednesday’s game.

CAPTAIN: Not quite the svelte speedster of his younger days, Derek Daypuck has re-invented himself as a hard-running centre with a good left boot. Only the venerable Frank Walsh of the Rock has been around longer than the 2007 World Cup veteran.

KEY PLAYERS: International hooking duo Aaron Carpenter and Ray Barkwill will split time and keep the energy high up front. Former captain Scott Dunham remains fiercely competitive, and a primary source of lineout possession. Flanker Alistair Clark and no8 Seb Pearson were outstanding on tour with Canada ‘A’. Scrumhalf Andrew Ferguson is a multi-skilled threat. Jordan Wilson-Ross has the pace to go around people and the power to go through them.

ONE TO WATCH: This year’s national u20 captain Lucas Rumball already has one impressive season with the Blues under his belt. Strong of mind and body, he has a habit of making a mess at the ruck and getting under the skin of opposing forwards.

HEAD COACH: Chris Silverthorn (4th year)

“The mood has been quite positive at training. It was a little tense for the past couple of weeks, as the guys knew we had to cut down our roster and there were going to be some quality players that would have to miss out, but excitement and positive energy has been building with the CRC just around the corner.

“Aaron [Carpenter]’s presence with the team has been fantastic. He has come in and instantly became one of the guys. At the same time he has upped the level of competition for our training sessions. I have seen the difference when Carps speaks and adds feedback. The guys really listen and he has been fantastic with the development players.

“The Rock is going to be a serious challenge. Their back row is very strong and they always play us hard. If we are fortunate enough to get past them, whoever we play – whether it’s the Wolf Pack or the Bears – it will be a very tough game.

“The level of competition has never been higher in Canadian rugby, and it’s producing some fantastic provincial programs. I wouldn’t consider us underdogs, but with only two games set to be played this year and it being a World Cup year, anything can happen.”

FORWARDS: Rob Brouwer (Lindsay), Djustice Sears-Duru (Crusaders), Matt Tierney (Mississauga), Doug Wooldridge (Lindsay), Ray Barkwill (Niagara), Aaron Carpenter (Brantford), Paul Ciulini (Aurora Barbs), Scott Dunham (Balmy Beach), Hank McQueen (Balmy Beach), Alistair Clark (Bay Street), Seb Pearson (London), Lucas Rumball (Balmy Beach), Mike Sheppard (Brampton)

BACKS: Andrew Ferguson (Crusaders), Jamie Mackenzie (Crusaders), Matt Alexander (Oshawa), Derek Daypuck (capt., London), Jon West (Aurora Barbs), Jordan Wilson-Ross (Barrie), Phil Mackenzie (Crusaders), Dan Moor (Balmy Beach), Jake Webster (Lindsay), Josh Campbell (London)

 

 

ROCK

Based in St. John’s but drawing from across the Eastern provinces, from Quebec to Newfoundland, the Rock are always challenged to put the pieces together with limited training time. They have struggled in the new-look CRC and it’s safe to say last year was their most disappointing to date, losing all six games and suffering crushing defeats at the hands of all three opponents.

They are a stronger side this year, of that there is no question. The additions of Matt Heaton and Chauncey O’Toole bolster the forwards, while Patrick Parfrey and Jimmy Norris add a touch of class to a young backline. Ciaran Hearn will be missed, but there are some as-of-yet unknowns who could jump into the conversation if they perform to their abilities in Calgary.

In a comedic on-again, off-again episode, Patrick Parfrey is included in the squad after being withdrawn from the Pan Am Games team. There are no other changes to the side.

CAPTAIN: Along with Patrick, Owen Parfrey carries the famous family name into battle with pride. Sometimes found at no8, he’ll be spending his time at hooker and will be the fulcrum of a very combative forward pack.

KEY PLAYERS: No question where the strength of the team lies. Matt Heaton, Chauncey O’Toole, and Zac Coughlan match up as well as any back row in the competition. Patrick Parfrey is the only capped player in the backline and will direct the play from flyhalf. Charles DeBove is very strong in the tackle and will be needed to break the gainline. Former Wales age-grade international Jimmy Norris will be expected to show his class.

ONE TO WATCH: Hailing from the unlikely Truro Saints club, Brett Johnson will be one of – if not – the fastest in the tournament. Small in stature but a committed tackler, he has a lethal step off either foot and a tendency to make defenders look very silly.

HEAD COACH: Simon Blanks (6th year)

“We are always struggling in the Atlantic region for ‘perfect preparation’ because all camps require flights and travel days added on, which makes it difficult for all of the squad to be at all of the sessions. As usual, we make the best of the situation and the upside to this is that we get a chance to look at some new blood. I’m excited to see how some of the young Quebec players fare this year.

“Not having our only two international backs is seriously detrimental to the team, but it’s also an opportunity for some of the new squad members to put their hand up. Chauncey [O’Toole] and Matt [Heaton] are quality players and will ensure that we get a few turnovers. Jimmy [Norris] is a bonus and will add some experience to a very young backline.

“It will be a David and Goliath struggle if we are to prevail against the Blues. They have the most settled squad and have played the best rugby for the last four years. I’d probably choose to avoid the Wolf Pack for the second game as they will have a greater benefit from the altitude in terms of recovery and could be very difficult to beat in the last quarter when those teams less acclimated will start to tire. The second game is all about winning the gold or not finishing last… both great motivators!”

FORWARDS: Alex Forrest (Mudmen), Tapiwa Rabwi (Tars), Bob Rogers (Dogs), Frank Walsh (Vandals), Owen Parfrey (Swilers), Jordon Power (Dogs), Chris Browne (Dogs), Evan Dickie (Enfield), Brad Lester (Dogs), Zac Coughlan (Swilers), Mike Hamson (Tars), Matt Heaton (SABRFC), Matt Murphy (Dogs), Chauncey O’Toole (Belleisle)

BACKS: Tony Pomroy (Baymen), Weston Hill (SABRFC), Rob Law (Montreal Irish), Patrick Parfrey (Swilers), Colin Alexander (Balmy Beach), Charles DeBove (SABRFC), Emil Sehic (Loyalists), Brett Johnson (Truro), Daniel Pelletier (Montreal Irish), Jimmy Norris (Old Luctonians), Shaquille Lattimore (SABRFC), Patrick McNicholas (Swilers)

 

 

WOLF PACK

Representing the best of the Prairies, the Wolf Pack have made Alberta their home base and will be delighted to be hosting in front of their dedicated fans in Calgary. Last year was their finest season to date, coming within a whisker of the title after upsetting the Blues in Peterborough to close their campaign. Head coach Graeme Moffat has meshed together an impressive blend of budding test players and local standouts.

Forward power has been the staple of their game and with internationals Hubert Buydens, Andrew Tiedemann, and fit-again Nanyak Dala thrown into the fray, it will be again. They will have to traverse a tricky Bears side to make the final, but if they can achieve that without too much attrition, the elusive title will at last be within their grasp.

The Wolf Pack have made a few late changes to their roster. In the forwards Josh Schlebach has dropped out with injury while Wayde Hodgen and John Anderson are now in the reserve group. In the backs, Ben LeSage and Justin Law have been replaced by Chad Spence and Duncan Maguire respectively.

CAPTAIN: What a week it will be for Kyle Gilmour, having just signed his first professional contract with Rotherham and now leading out his side on their home turf. Look for his constant state of motion to be a big part of any Wolf Pack success.

KEY PLAYERS: The scrum will be strong once again with Canada bookends Hubert Buydens and Andrew Tiedemann enlisted. Second row Evan Olmstead is big, mean, and mobile. At his best, Nanyak Dala is as good a back rower as there is in the country. Gordon McRorie is arguably the best scrumhalf. Nick Blevins is a no-nonsense centre who runs straight and hard.

ONE TO WATCH: Born in Vancouver but of Argentine stock, Lucas Albornoz has the size and skill to play all across the back row. As the new kid in town, there will be plenty of eyes on him to see if he’s got the potential to take another step up the ladder.

HEAD COACH: Graeme Moffat (3rd year)

“The format this year is significantly different so we have to be thorough with our preparation. I was pleased with our camp last week and how the players, coaches, and support staff contributed. It’s great to have Hubert [Buydens] and Andrew [Tiedemann] back in the mix after a couple of years away. It was good to have Jeff Hassler join us for a few sessions too. It’s invaluable for our younger players to work with and learn from them and their experiences playing professionally.

“The Bears have some strong, experienced players in their program and we anticipate a close game. Ontario are favourites and will be fielding a strong squad with four capped front row players listed, while the Rock has also bolstered their team and have a great back row.

“We’re excited to play in the Prairies. Around 85% of the squad are from or are currently playing in Alberta, and they are looking forward to playing at home. We really enjoy the CRC and the environment that the team has created. We have a strong culture and spent camp balancing team building activities and on field rugby sessions. The players are ready to play and for many this is the last chance to push for World Cup places.”

FORWARDS: Liam Beaulieu (St. Albert), Hubert Buydens (Castaway Wanderers), Nick McAuley (Saints), Clayton Thornber (Castaway Wanderers), Andrew Tiedemann (Plymouth Albion), Matt Harrison (Assassins), Spencer Watkins (Foothills), Ian Huston (Saints), Spencer Massiah (Hornets), Evan Olmstead (Parramatta), Lucas Albornoz (St. Albert), Nanyak Dala (Castaway Wanderers), Kyle Gilmour (St. Albert), Chris Long (Palmerston North), Clayton Panga (St. Albert)

BACKS: James Buchanan (Hornets), Gordon McRorie (Hornets), Gradyn Bowd (Red Deer), Adam McQueen (Hornets), Nick Blevins (Hornets), Dustin MacPherson (Hornets), Mozac Samson (Saints), Chad Spence (Canucks), Adam Bontus (St. Albert), Duncan Maguire (St. Albert), Graham Turner (Hornets), Carl Pocock (Hornets)