Canada’s Men’s Rugby Team recently showcased their talent and determination in two exciting preparation games at TD Place, setting the stage for their upcoming Pacific Nations Cup matches in the USA and Japan.
Canada vs Romania. Photo: Pedro Decimus
Game 1: Canada vs. Scotland (July 6)
In their first match, Canada faced a strong opponent in Scotland, ranked 6th in the world. Despite a promising start from Canada with an early lead of 0-5, Scotland quickly took control, heading into halftime with a 24-5 lead. The second half saw Scotland further dominate, ultimately winning 73-12. Six new players debuted for Canada: Nic Benn as a starter, and Brock Gallagher, James Stockwood, Jesse Mackail, and brothers Talon and Takoda McMullin entering the game in the second half.
This match drew a record-breaking crowd of 11,447, the largest for an international test match at TD Place. Fans witnessed Scotland claim the Douglas Horn Cup (formerly the Douglas JL Horn Memorial Cup) for the fourth time, maintaining their undefeated record since the inception of the Cup. Harry Paterson was named Player of the Match, receiving a special art piece designed by Connor nidijinikaz, Nandotawa Tibikad, Pikwàkanagàn nindondjiba, makwa nidodem, an artist from the Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn First Nation, which designed Player of the Match awards for both games.
Canada vs Romania. Photo: Pedro Decimus
Game 2: Canada vs. Romania (July 12)
In their second match, Canada once again started strong, taking an early 6-0 lead against Romania with two penalty kicks from Peter Nelson. Romania quickly responded with a kick of their own to cut the deficit in half, but Canada extended their lead to 13-3 thanks to a try from Nic Benn, playing in just his second game for Canada. The first half ended with Canada leading 13-3.
The second half was closely contested, with both teams exchanging points. Romania briefly took the lead at 22-20, but Canada responded decisively. Andrew Quattrin scored consecutive tries, and another kick conversion from Nelson gave Canada a 32-22 lead. After Romania went down a player due to a second yellow card, Nelson sealed the victory with one final kick, ending the game at 35-22. New players Fryer, Calixto Martinez, Dewald Kotze, and Mark Balaski earned their first caps, with Fryer being named Player of the Match.
Team Canada with local fans. Photo: Pedro Decimus
Looking Ahead
Canada will now face Japan in Vancouver on August 25 before competing in the Pacific Nations Cup. These matches are crucial as Canada continues to build momentum and prepare for the international stage.
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