RUGBY LEAGUE: COVENTRY Bears travelled to Canada at the weekend to compete in their latest League One fixture against the league’s newest team Toronto Wolfpack.
Prior to kick-off, Toronto Wolfpack – a team of full time professional players assembled from across the globe – had beaten second placed Barrow 70-2 and thrashed Doncaster by 76 points.
With thousands of people turning out to watch the Wolfpack in action, Tom Tsang’s side always played with damage limitation at the front of their tactical minds.
Knowing any defensive slip up could lead to a try, Coventry proved resilient at the back as Wolfpack led by just eight points mid-way through the first half.
Jamahl Hunte then chased down a kick and carried it over the line to half Toronto’s lead to just four points.
The home side had to step up a gear to score two tries, but Coventry were not beaten yet as Brad Delaney scored a penalty to end the half with Bears trailing by 26 points to six.
Spurred on by a 7,000 crowd, with a sprinkling of loyal Coventry fans who had made the trip over, the second half resumed.
Toronto’s Fui Moi powered over the line twice as the home side extended their lead.
But Bears’ resilience and creativity were by no means extinguished as they pushed hard and were rewarded with a second try from Brad Delaney.
The game ended 56-12, but Bears made a real game of it and provided stiffer opposition than anything Toronto have come across so far this season.
Praise was heaped on Tsang’s men after the game.
Toronto head coach Paul Rowley said: “Coventry came with a really good attitude.
“They were very positive and enjoyed the experience.
“And that translated to their performance on the field.”
Bears CEO Alan Robinson added: “The boys did themselves, the club and Coventry, proud.
“I couldn’t be more pleased.
“We have some great memories and new friends after today.”
Bears are next in action this Sunday (June 11) as they face Hemel Stags at the Butts Park Arena.
The game kicks off at 3pm with adults admission costing £12, concessions £10, youths £5 and kids free.
