Vancouver Cougars Match Reports

Calgary Claims Stampede Cup

2006-09-05T12:14:00.000-07:00

A small gathering of BCFooty players made the trek over to Calgary to defned the Stampede Cup trophy. Unfortunately as we've seen so often this year, the Calgary Kangaroos were too strong on the day and won back their cup.

Match Results

Calgary Bears 2.3.15 v Calgary Kangaroos 10.6.66
BC Footy 9.5.59 v Calgary Bears 0.3.3
Calgary Kangaroos 15.10.100 v Cougars 2.2.14

An expanded report will follow, but here's some pics in the interim....

Eagles "Stink" their way to victory

2006-08-14T09:04:00.000-07:00

On another beautiful day for footy, the Eagles pulled off a desperately needed victory to come back in the local season series (now sitting at 4-3). From the opening quarter the Eagles took control against the Cougars and never relinquished the lead all game.

Dale Wakefield exploded out of the blocks kicking 4 first quarter goals and 5 in the first half to set up the Eagles. Coach Freeman had one of his best games for the Eagles this year, while in his last game before heading back to Australia, Paul "Stinky" Atkinson was arguable B.O.G.

For the Cougars, the backline was tested all game and Coops and Cikerla stepped up to play big games. Fleming bagged 3 up forward and kept it close at times during the game, but the Cougars just couldn't quite get in front in the end.

Final Score
Cougars 7.8.50 to Eagles 13.10.88

Goals
Cougars - Fleming 3, Prashad 1, Santo 1, Palin 1, Coops 1
Eagles - Wakefield 5, Taylor 2, Joyes 2, Freeman 2, Brad 1, Jess 1

To see the gallery of photos from the day, click on the picture below -

Calgary 3-peats in West Coast Challenge

2006-08-02T13:31:00.000-07:00

After a couple of week's of high temperatures, it seemed like divine intervention that the mercury cooled a little just in time for the annual display of the North West Pacific footy spectacular - the West Coast Challenge.

Once again, teams from Burnaby, Vancouver, Calgary and Seattle gathered to contest for "the Boot". To recognise the significance of the event, the BCFooty committee managed to secure the rights to the magnificent Thunderbird Stadium - the best footy ground in North America.

The Road to Thunderbird

Game 1 - Cougars v Eagles

The first clash of the day saw Vancouver's traditional rivals, Vancouver and Burnaby go head to head. With the series sitting at 3-2, this was a pivitol clash between the two clubs.

The game became even more special as BCFooty saw it's first ever father/son playing in the same game, with both Nick and Mike McFarlane lining up together. Mike was one of the best Canadians to play for the Cougars before "retiring" after 3 seasons (2001-03). He is also the driving force of the North Delta Juniors. One of the direct products of the Juniors is Mike's son Nick, who was playing his first official game for the Cougars.

Nick and Mike McFarlane

From the start of the game it was all Cougars as they jumped the Eagles and controlled play around much of the ground. "Charlie" Sheen and Cikarela were dominate accross the CHB line, while Scotty Fleming was quickly establishing himself as a key target up forward. Mike McFarlane proved he's still got it, as he slotted home a nice goal for himself.

At half time, the Cougars had jumped away to a 4.2.26 to 1.2.8 lead. The second half was a lot tighter with the Eagles repeatedly driving the ball forward. In the end though, a nice mark and a second goal for Mike McFarlane saw the Cougars comfortably home 5.2.32 to the Eagles 2.7.19.

Goals

Cougars - McFarlane 2, Grills 1, Mark Palin 1, Fleming 1

Eagles - Dickins 1

Game 2 - Grizzlies vs. Kangaroos

The first game for the defending champs saw them face an undermanned Seattle side. However, pre-game, the word in the commentary box was that the Calgary boys had a rather big Friday night - carving up the downtown Vancouver bar scene, so it was going to be interesting to see how they fared in their first game.

The commentary team calls the early action

The Special Comments team

Well it certainly didn't have much effect on their on-field performance as the Kangaroos came out guns ablazing. Calgary established domination through the centreline early and the No.1 recipient of that was Judgey who marked everything that came his way and slammed through 5 of Calgary's 6 first half goals.

At half time, Calgary was up 6.3.33 to Seattle 0.0.0. They certainly didn't let up in the second half and proceeded to pile on another 6 goals. Rugby league legend Timmy Brasher proved he's no slouch with the Aussie rules ball, putting in a great game, while Flower and Copeland took control through the centre and the likes of Beau Corps and Stewart continued the damage in the forwardline.

The 2nd half also saw Brad Flower take one of the biggest hangers you will every likely see in a game of AFL at any level. He literally launched himself onto the top of his opponents shoulders....seemed to pause there for a while, took the grab...and then for good measure just sat there for a bit longer to take it all in before finally drifting down to earth. Amazing.

Final Score - Calgary 12.9.81 to Seattle 0.0.0 (yikes).

Game 3 - Cougars v Grizzlies

So after a solid opening game against the Eagles, the Cougars were looking for more of the same against the Grizzlies. Despite facing a determined Seattle side, the Cougars were able to drive the ball continously into the forwardline. Fleming was having a "coming of age" day, proving to be quite a handful for his opposing number with a lot of hard leads and some nice grabs. Brock Gutherie was also strong at CHF and the scoreline showed with the two of them putting through 3 goals for the game. With a couple of Vargo goals in the first half, the Cougars went to half time with a lead of 4.3.27 to Seattle 0.1.1.

The Cougars prepare for the 2nd half.

The pace eased off in the second half, but the Cougars continued to build up the scoreline. The usual suspects in the backline prevented the Grizzlies from adding to the scoreboard, while another goal from Fleming and a major for Campo saw the Cougars home easy winners.

Final score - Cougars 6.6.36 to the Grizzlies 0.1.1

Goals

Cougars - Vargo 2, Fleming 2, Campo 1, Guthrie 1

Game 4 - Eagles vs. Kangaroos

Knowing they needed a victory to remain in contention for the West Coast Challenge title, Eagles coach Freeman had the boys fired up to take it up to a Calgary side that had just crushed Seattle. In the first half...that's exactly what they did. Calgary quickly realised that the Eagles had come to play. With Skipper Stevie Harper back after an extended visit to Australia and Stinky Atkinson playing his usual great game in the centre, the Eagles were able to get the ball into the forwardline and give their forwards a chance. Young Santo "Claus" Zenome continues to impress in the forwardline, kicking a nice goal. He could be the goal sneak the Eagles have been looking for since Stratford's departure. Veteran Colin Hilton added one of his own to give the Eagles a slight lead early.

Joyes launches over Flower and Payne

Calgary started to fight back and get on the board themselves. Rich Joyes was doing a great job on the dangerous Judgey, while Payne and Taylor kept the Kangaroos from getting too much on the scoreboard. At the half, the Eagles held a slender 2.2.14 to Kanagroos 1.4.10 lead.

The Roos team that emerged at half time was the championship team that had just destroyed Seattle. As the half wore on, the Eagles were swamped under wave after wave of Calgary attacks. The Roos were relentless and piled on 8 2nd half goals to crush the Eagles.

Final Score - Roos 9.9.63 to the Eagles 2.3.15.

Goals

Eagles - Santo 1, Hilton 1

Game 5 - Cougars v Kangaroos

So with 2 wins each, the Cougars/Kangaroos game was effectively the Championship game. Both teams had plenty of motivation to win. The Cougars had added incentive with Skipper Vargo and SuperCoach Grills both lining up for their 50th game. Would it be a fairtale finish?

Vargo and Grills after Game No. 50

The first half was a tight affair with niether team really gaining a clear advantage. Newbe Mark Palin was given the task of tagging Flower out of the game and that he did with great effect. After prancing onto the field with some fancy Flourecent orange boots, Flower was quick to change at half time, hoping that would help him get a few kicks. To counter the dangerous Judgey, Grills moved himself to Full back and stopped many attacks with some huge sweeping marks on the last line of defence.

The forwardline tried hard when the ball was down our end and Fleming continued to lead hard all day. Unfortunately a few easy misses saw the Cougars down at half time - 0.4.4 to Calgary 2.2.14.

The second half remained a close affair, but Calgary slowly but surely were making the best of the limited opportunities. Despite a late goal by Scotty Fleming after taking his own "hanger" over none other than Flower, the Calgary Boys were too strong accross the ground.

Final Score - Kangaroos 5.5.35 to Cougars 1.4.10

Goals

Cougars - Fleming 1

Game 6 - Eagles vs. Grizzlies

After 2 losses each, both the Eagles and the Grizzlies knew pride was on the line when they lined up for the last game, with neither team wanting to leave the West Coast Challenge without a win. On this occasion it was the Eagles who came out the most determined. From the start, Wakefield, Chuck, Freeman, Stinky and Co, controlled the centre and set up their forwards with many, many chances.

Despite some wayward kicking in the first half that saw the Eagles with a 2.7.19 to 1.1.7 lead, they came good in the end. Joyes made the move into the guts and looked very good on the hard lead, taking some nice grabs and kicking 3 majors. With Randy Dickins playing a great game up at CHF, could Coach Freeman have unvieled a spectacular new forward arrangement? One player who impressed yet again was Santo Claus who seemed to be roving and snapping goals from all sorts of angles in the pocket, ending the game with 3 goals of his own. In the end, a great victory for the Eagles to finish off their tournament.

Final score - 8.10.58 to Seattle 2.3.15

Goals

Joyes 3, Santo 3, Hilton 1, Chuck 1

In the end a great win for the Eagles, but the result did not change the fact that for the 3rd successive year, the Calgary boys walked away as Champions.

Post Game

Post game it was off to the newly established Irish bar of Campus Mahoney and Sons for a few ales, the presentation of some "interesting" trophies to each teams best player, and a lot of good times.

Gareth and Rosie with the West Coast Challenge Cup (aka "The Boot").

Seattle Coach for the day - Bartlett says a few (actually many) words

Calgary Best - Beau Corps

Cougars best - Luke Cikerla

Eagles best - Stinky Atkinson

Thanks

Thanks as always to the many volunteers for the day. In particular - all the Umpires for their great work all day and Laura Grills for her sensational Pie selling.

Gallery

The view the full gallery of photos from the Game, click the following photo. (Thanks to Janis and Randy for the great action shots !!).

Cougars heat it up in a thriller

2006-06-29T14:07:00.000-07:00

With the Cougars v Eagles series locked at 2 a piece, game 5 in the local series was always going to be a cracker with both teams keen to take the series lead. Both teams arrived at Burnaby Lakes to beautiful barmy weather and a ground that was in superb condition.

The Eagles had extra incentive to win on the day as veteran Colin Hilton became the first BCFooty player to crack the 50 game mark. Before the game started, both players formed a guard of honour as Col ran through a banner to mark the occasion prepared loving by his “girls” - wife Kym, and daughters Sophie and Riley.

With the formalities over, it was time to get on with the footy at hand. The Cougars were buoyed before the game with the return of ruckman Mark McCutheon and the every versatile Shine Edgar, both back after an absence of a few games. They quickly made their mark with McCutheon dominating the early ruck duels and Edgar was getting a lot of it out on the wings.

Despite playing into a strong headwind, the Cougars had a lot of play in the early going. Playing his first game for the Cougars, Big Pat adapted quickly to the game at CHF and found himself in great position to take a few marks and have a couple of cracks at goal. Despite the stifling conditions, both teams were playing fast and furious. A pair of Vargo goals saw the Cougars with a slight lead at quarter time.

Q1 – Cougars 3.5.23 to the Eagles 3.1.19

After a solid first quarter and now playing with the wind, the Cougars were confident of building on their lead, but it was not to be. The Eagles centreline took away the ascendancy of the game when Chuck moved to the ruck and Randy Dickins was proving a handful up forward, kicking a number of nice goals (including a long bomb on the half-time siren). Col Hilton topped off his 50th with a highlight reel snap from the boundary and the Eagles took an 8 point lead into half time.

The Cougars couldn’t get anything going forward and when they did, Chris Payne was proving to be just that – a right pain, rejecting a lot of Cougar advances. The scoreline could have been a lot bigger for the Eagles had it not been the solid play in the backline by Scotty “Mr.” Sheen, Teddy Bundy and Luke Cikerala who were running straight lines at the footy all day. Johnny Bouker was hard at the ball too, so hard in fact that a big tackle on his favourite Eagle – Chris Freeman, lead to him popping his shoulder out and unfortunately taking no further part in the game.

Half Time – Cougars 4.6.30 to the Eagles 6.2.38

The game could have easily turned the Eagles way as players from both sides were being tested by the heat. However, the Cougars dug in and once again fought hard into the wind. Grills switched to the ruck and his attack and enthusiasm for the footy was infectious.

The centreline of Jorgansen, Vargo and Edgar was linking well leading to a couple of Vargo goals from tap out wins and some quick handballs through the centre. Les Ketchell continued to shine across the forward flank showing a lot of dash, while Campo was once again proving to be an elusive goal sneak, bagging two nice goals for the Cougars on the day.

Q3 – Cougars 8.10.58 to the Eagle 10.6.66

With an early goal to the Eagles it looked like they might just pull off a deserved victory, but the Cougars were not done yet by a long way. Scotty Sheen continued to repel numerous attacks and pump the ball long where players were lining up to get free. Shifting to Full back, McCutheon continued to be all over the footy, and had a number of long linking plays with Cikerala and Jorgansen down the wings.

Gradually the game shifted as Guthrie finished off a nice passage of play with a goal, then Grills, then Vargo and suddenly the game was extremely close. With no-one to sure of just how tight the scoreline was, and with only seconds to play, Edgar banged home a beautiful snapped goal from 20 metres out after some sensational long linking play down the wing by the Cougars.

The siren went shortly after…but who had won?.....it was the Cougars !!! A superb come from behind victory in an extremely tough game after the team had looked gone a 3 quarter time.

Final Score - Cougars 12.11.83 to the Eagles 11.10.76

Cougars Goals - Vargo 5, Campo 2, Grills 1, McCutheon 1, Jorgensen 1, Guthrie 1, Edgar 1

Eagle Goals - Dickins 4, Freemo 2, Santos 2, Col 1, Chick 1, Stinky 1

Kelowna Trip

2006-06-27T10:54:00.000-07:00

Its fair to say that the Calgary teams gave as a footballing lesson.

Game Results - (Seems to be some differences to the Calgary website, but these are what we have)

BC Canadians 6.6.42 to Calgary Canadians 7.7.49
Vancouver Cougars 4.2.26 vs. Calgary Aussies 19.7.121
BC Canadians 3.4.22 vs. Red Deer 8.4.52
Burnaby Eagles 7.5.47 vs. Calgary Aussies 15.7.97

Here's a collection of pic's from the weekend. Just click on the picture below to see the slideshow.

Here's a link to an article that appeared in the Kelowna Daily Courier.

Game 4 - Cougars v Eagles May 28th, 2006

2006-05-31T10:50:00.000-07:00

It was another wet day in Burnaby Lakes as the Cougars and Eagles prepared for Clash No. 3 in their long season series. For the previous 2 days, SuperCoach Grills and Skipper Vargo had been planning for the Eagles downfall via a Football Strategy Planning Retreat in Whistler under the "guise" of playing golf.

The Cougars hit the dressing rooms with a strong turnout and on paper; it was shaping up as one of the strongest teams, fielded for the year.

From the opening bounce however, the Cougars looked second fiddle against a fired up Eagles team. Boom new recruit Andy was dominating the centre bounces and Wakefield, and Stinky Atkinson were driving the ball out of the centre for the Eagles with ease. Once again Johnny Bowker was given the job of forming the Freeman blanket and quickly continued where he left off a fortnight before. Determined to "shake the blanket", Freeman temporary shook it off after delivering a crushing (but fair) hip and shoulder that temporary saw the blanket shaken up and in need of some quick repairs.

The Eagles continued to press forward. From the opening stanza Coops was in everything that came into the backline. With the ball constantly on the ground, it was only through his ferocious diving and tackling efforts, and the tough play of the two Brocks and Matty Neufeld that prevented the scoreboard from creeping higher into the Eagles favour. Hilton and Bagjera put on a couple of Eagles goals and the Eagles were off and running.

After moving up the ground from the full pocket, Grills began to gather a lot of stats across the centreline and began to swing the ball the Cougars way. A late Cougar goal to Vargo saw the Eagles with a handy but small lead in the sloppy conditions.

Cougars 1.0.6 to the Eagles 2.1.13

The boys were asked to lift in the second quarter to match the Eagles intensity as far as hitting the ball hard and tackling went, and that they did. A couple of key changes in the centreline and the Cougars began to turn the game their way. Despite a very, very late night the night before, DJ Bennetron began to fire up and relished an unusual role for him out on the Wing, where he began to pile up a lot of loose possessions. Having just driven into town and basically run straight onto the field, Shine Edgar wasted no time getting his hands on the footy and set up a number of Cougar thrusts.

Still it remained the dominant play of the backline that was crushing the Eagles hopes and setting up an almost impenetrable wall across CHB. Playing some of his career best footy, the "Guru" - Rob Edmonds was an inspiring force all game as he constantly got his right fist out to deny his opponents the ball time and time again. In one beautiful passage of play later in the game, he managed to garner about 5 quick possessions, only to fall antagonising close to a great goal after a snap from about 15 metres out...proving there is a reason backman play in the back !!!

The Cougars began to hit the goals, hard and if not for the (now seemingly) usual misses, the scoreboard could have been a Cougars blowout.

Half time - Cougars 3.5.23 to the Eagles 3.2.20

After half time, some drizzling rain was ominous as the Cougars began to rain goals.....or should I say - points on the scoreboard. Big Luke Cikerela moved to the forwardline and was instantly a solid target to aim for, providing a lot of hard leads and fighting hard to keep the footy in the forwardline. After a long layoff, Richie Ananadacoomaswarmy was trying to weave some black magic around the forward line and after an easy miss in front, he atoned for himself by quickly slotting through a nice goal.

Having lost the Bowker Blanket, Freeman can not have been to happy to have been introduced to the Scotty Sheet as Scott relished the opportunity to completely cover the Eagles coach and severely reduce his impact on the game.

With the Cougars backline continuing to control the game, the Cougars centreline was taking it in turns to drill the ball long. Jorgensen and McCutheon were getting plenty of tough possessions across the centre as the likes of Neufeld and Thompson drove the ball long. Jorgensen continually got himself into scoring position but had to put his hand up this week for the title of most points for the Cougars (much to the relief of Perennial point scorers - Grills and Vargo).

Hats off to the play of Eagles backmen Chuck Buchanan, Cam Maris and Pete Taylor who single-handedly tried all day to keep the Eagles in it and applied a lot of pressure that stopped a lot of Cougars chances from turning into goals rather than points.

3 quarter time - Cougars 4.11.35 to the Eagles 3.4.22

The 4th quarter was all Cougars. Determined to convert their dominance around the ground into goals, the team never let up and peppered the forwardline time and time again. It seemed that everyone wanted a piece and the scoreboard co-operated.

Clearly lacking for something to do in the backline, Coops (for the second time) found himself in front of goals and slotted his 2nd home for the game. Having never scored a goal in 42 previous games for the Cougars it was a deserving result for the Cougar who'd played the hardest footy all day. However, he was quickly reprimanded by Coach Grills who told him in no uncertain terms that backman should not be lurking in the forwardline....

With Coops out of the way, Grills was able to slot a nice goal of his own - which turned out to be career goal number 50 for the Cougars. Jorgensen finally slotted one through the sticks late in the game and despite another 5 points; the Cougars came off the field big winners.

Final Score - Cougars 8.16.64 to the Eagles 3.4.22 (this is eerily similar to our last game against the Eagles which was 8.15.63 to 3.2.20 - and also proves we need to do some goal-kicking practice....)

Goals - Coops 2, Vargo 2, Grills 1, Luke 1, Richie 1, Brad 1

Game 2 & 3 - Cougars go 2-0 in Port Angeles

2006-05-15T12:45:00.000-07:00

The Vancouver Cougars revitalized their season with a stunning 2-0 result from this weekend’s road trip down to Port Angeles.

Despite aiming for a 7am departure time, we yet again couldn’t co-ordinate 30 players and supporters to get out of bed in time to get going from Vancouver and head across the Border at such an early hour. We finally got going at 8am and bolted south. The long trip got a bit longer for some after Shane Burgess accidentally packed his old passport – Doh !! Thankfully, Teddy (who some say could make it on the F1 circuit at the speeds he drives) drove back and got it for him as he sat in citizenship limbo at the US Immigration office.

Pretty much everyone missed the shorter 10.15am ferry from Keystone so we had to head almost all the way down to Seattle to catch the 12.15 Edmonds ferry across to Puget Sound to get to Port Angeles. FINALLY at around 2pm – 7 hours later we made it to the ground.

The game was at beautiful Civic Field, which has to be one of the nicest grounds Seattle has ever managed to co-ordinate for a game. It was small, but in beautiful nick and had quite a nice grandstand to go with it.

Game 1 – Cougars v Grizzlies.

With 5 Eagles about an hour behind due to the “Burgess Border Incident”, the Cougars played Seattle in the first game. After a disappointing first up loss to the Eagles, the Cougars were strengthened tremendously by the return of Troy Macri (currently residing in Calgary) and Shine Edgar (the former Cougars, turned Eagle, turned back to Cougar). From the opening bounce, the Cougars centerline of Grills, Bowker, Macri and Vargo took control of the game and bombed the ball long into the full-forward line on the very short ground with the later 3 all kicking nice running goals at some stage in the game.

It didn’t take long before it was raining goals. Grills headed down to Full Forward in the second half and proceeded to grab everything that came his way, snagging 4 goals. First time player Mark McCutheon was proving a handful just about all over the ground. Starting at Full Back, he even managed to run the length of the ground and kick a goal, before later kicking another after replacing Grills in the ruck. Another first timer – Chris was racking up possessions across the Half Forward Flank. Coops as always was a dominant force in the backline while Settacasi relished a short stint in the Full Forward position taking some nice grabs and bagging a goal for himself. Edgar was all over the footy throughout the game, and while his disposal wasn’t up to usual lofty standards early (after a full year off from the game), he proved that he is going to be very dangerous as the season progresses.

All up a thumping win.

Final Score: Cougars – 12.8.80 to the Grizzlies – 3.2.20.
Goals: Grills 4, McCutheon 2, Settacasi 1, Campo 1, Vargo 1, Macri 1, Attwood 1, Bowker 1.

Game 2 – Cougars v Eagles.

Game 2 saw the second game in the Cougars v Eagles series. From the start, the Cougars weren’t having it as easily as they had against Seattle. Despite being without 2005 B&F winner – Louie and regular centreman Dale Wakefield, the Eagles centerline of Freeman, Atkinson and Harper were a strong force early and set up a number of Eagles drives. Thankfully the regular forces of Coops, Neufeld, Teddy and Campo were up to the task of squashing the Eagles forwards and refused to concede any easy goals.

As a result, the Cougars managed to keep their heads in front at every change. As the game wore on, the Cougars started to roll over the Eagles. Having picked up a few good stats in the first quarter, Coach Grills made a key move on Eagles player/coach Freeman – he applied the “Bowker Blanket”. For the next 3 quarters, Freeman could not move on the ground without the “Blanket” completely smoothing him and taking him right out of the game. With Eagles Skip Stevie Harper also going down with a Hammy injury, the Eagles began to lose control through the centre.

"The Bowker Blanket" - as worn by Chris Freeman

Edgar got a lot of the ball through the centre, while McCutheon was completely unstoppable all over the ground again, almost single-handed taking control of the game of the Cougars.

Vargo headed down for a stint in the forward line and bagged himself 4 goals to continue what is likely to become a season long duel with Grills at the top of the goal-kicking ladder. Grills snagged a late goal to take the season lead after (some say), stealing a long bomb from Matty Neufeld on the goal-line and tapping it through. Normally a backman, the goal would have been Matty’s first in 21 games with the Cougars – shame Grills, shame. Although in saying that, Matty proved he was definitely a backman earlier in the game when he sent a kick from 20metres out, directly in front - about 20 metres wide of point post and out on the full. Once again, some wayward kicking from the usual suspects prevented the scoreline from being even larger.

At the other end, Macri proved he is just as big a handful down in the backline, sweeping across the CHB line on regular occasions, to send the ball back the Cougars way time and time again.

In the end, a tough but strong win.

Final Score: Cougars 8.15.63 to the Eagles 3.2.20
Goals: Vargo 4, Macri 2, Grills 1, Josh 1.

To see a gallery of pics from the game, click on the picture below -

Game 1 - Cougars v Eagles

2006-05-02T14:31:00.000-07:00

It was a rainy Vancouver day that greeted the Cougars and Eagles players as they showed up at Burnaby Lakes Rugby field for Game 1 of the 2005-06 season. Clearly this was going to be a game for the rovers, as despite the pitch being in fairly good knick it was still pretty wet everywhere.

Both teams managed to field 16 a side with the Eagles providing the Fozz and the Wiz to the Cougars to even up the numbers.

From the start, the Eagles took it to the Cougars. Eagles Coach Freeman surprised many. Known usually for his yips in front of the goals, Freeman not only kicked the first two of the game for the Eagles, he also ended up kicking 4 for the game - a nice little b'day present for himself. Grills and Vargo kicked a goal a piece in the first half for the Cougars, but the Eagles went to half time with a handy 3 goal lead.

Half time - Cougars 2.2.14 to Eagles 4.8.32

The third quarter saw further Eagles dominance as they slammed on 4 goals to one. If it wasn't for the sterling work in the Backline by Fozz, Brock and Coops, the lead would have been much bigger. The Cougars seemed to have a lot of the footy, but just couldn't convert their opportunities (Grills and Vargo kicking many,many....many points between them, with the "slippery ball" being designated as the culprit).

The 4th quarter was frustrating as the Cougars seemed to be constantly propelling the ball into the forwardline with first year players Brad and Luke dominating across the centre setting up a lot of forward thrusts, but the Cougars just couldn't get the score on the board.

Brad and Lewie fight for the ball (Pic courtesy of Mario Bartel-Burnaby NewsLeader)

In the end, the Eagles were just too good on this occasion.

Final Score - Cougars 3.8.26 to Eagles 9.11.65

Goals - Grills 2, Vargo 1
Bests - (From) Fozz, Coops, Brock, Brad, Luke

A point on the Eagles

1. 2005 B&F - Louie played yet another game for the Eagles to no-ones surprise. From a playing point of view, the Cougars certainly won't be too sad to see Louie leave for his South American travels next week. Take as looooooong as you want Louie.

2. It was good to see the return of Matty Werner to the field after some injuries and travels last year. He played a great first up return game and took a lot of big grabs despite the wet conditions.

3. Yes Chris - well done, nice goals. Freemo almost got as many goals as times he cried out for a free kick....just kidding Chris.

Post Game

Thanks to Mrs Freemo (Mel) for supplying lots of nibbles and cake to celebrate Chris's milestone 30th b'day, which now officially recognises him as a "veteran".

Freemo, about to enjoy a nice birthday shot

Apparently Tabasco isn't the best addition to a birthday shot

2005 US Nationals Match Report

2005-10-15T15:43:00.000-07:00

Cougars at the 2005 US Nationals

Hello all Vancouver/Burnaby supporters and players.

After an epic weekend of travel and footy I am very pleased to report that the Vancouver Cougar team (players from both the Burnaby Eagles and Vancouver Cougars teams) represented Canada in the 2005 US Nationals Football Tournament in noble style.

Unfortunately we did not make it through to the Division 3 final due to the forfieted game (game #1) against Minnesota, however it is true to say that as the first Canadian team to play in the US Nationals we currently stand with a record of 2 WINS. We have not been defeated on the field - and what great wins they were.

Game 1 -
Vancouver 4.10-34 defeated Atlanta/New York B 2.5-17

Game 2 -
Vancouver 14.6-90 defeated Golden Gate B/Mojave Greens 0.3-3

Tournament Best Non Australian - Matt Neufeld
Tournament Best Australian - Troy Macri

It is important to report that the actual weekend was a difficult organisational process from the outset as we did not get official confirmation of our attendance until 4 weeks prior to the event. Given this we scrambled to get players (due to commitments etc) and indeed tickets that would fit most peoples budgets! Having secured enough tickets we had to make a bus trip south to Seattle/Tacoma airport and during this trip the bus that we travelled down with had a passenger (not affiliated to the club) that caused us to have a 40 minute delay at the border. Add to that a 45 minute road work delay on the I5 and we were pushing it. Our Vancouver to Seattle leg of the journey ended up taking more that 5 1/2 hrs! A tough start to a long trip.

Regardless of all player's pleas to let us on the flight (leaving in 15 minutes) the gate attendant refused us entry and thus we missed out flight! We were, however put on another flight leaving at 6am

Saturday morning - This would mean we could not make our first scheduled game. We could only hope that it would be rescheduled.

All players showed great spirit and made the most of our predicament learning new Karoake songs and card games over our 4 hr lay over.

We eventually arrived at the Milwaukeee airport at 1:30pm Saturday afternoon and quickly got into rental vans to drive the 40 minutes to the field! Our second game had been rescheduled to 5pm so we were pretty pumped to be playing - albeit without any sleep for nearly 24 hrs.

Unfortunately we could not get the first game to be rescheduled and thus - forfeit was confirmed.

It was back to the hotel after our first ever US Nationals win - A very historic day. A quick hearty meal and bed. We had our second game on Sunday at 8am. We awoke very early Sunday and headed out to the fields. Memories of junior footy games came flooding back. The morning dew was rising from the grass fields. The boys were fired up and we came out thumping - a big win resulted. It was now a matter of waiting to see how all the percentage points panned out as there were three teams in the running for the GF position in our pool. Vancouver with 2 wins, 1 forfeit, Atlanta/NYC with 2 wins, 1 loss and Minnesota with 1 win, 1 forfeit, 1 loss.

Minnesota got through by a thin margin.

I am very proud of the effort that everyone made to participate in this great event and I was so proud to hear all the comments from many other sides stating how "fit our team was, and how well we played footy" and "what an effort it was for us to get there....".

I would especially like to thank all the players for there participation - MATT NEUFELD, Myk AUSSIE, TED MURRAY, AARON BROUGHTON, SIMON NOLAN, SHANE GOUGH, STEVE HARPER, EVAN OZIRNY, PETER CAMPION, RANDY DICKIN, JOHN DIXON, TROY MACRI, JON BOWKER, STU GRILLS.

Special thanks to KIT for all the water/trainer assistance. You all were awesome as players and ambassadors for CANADA and Vancouver.

Also special thanks to the Seattle AFC and the San Diego AFC (Ryan, Tareq, Michael and Colin) for all their help and support - you guys are truly great sports.

Peter Campion put a lot of effort into making this experience as successful as possible and without his tireless efforts in organising flights, hotel bookings, rental car bookings, liasing with USfooty etc it would not have been a reality - thanks Campo.

WELL DONE FELLA'S.

Next year will be an even better experience for all participants...........the history pages have already started to be written.

2005 Season Summary (as used for B&F night)

2005-09-30T15:42:00.000-07:00

Game 1 – Cougars v Eagles April 9th

• Ring in Grant Edmonds was superb across the centre for the Cougars.
• Grills slammed home 4 goals.
• Bobby Dazzler lead from the front for the Eagles.
• Randy Dickins proved a handfull at Full Forward kicking 3 for the Eagles.
• Despite a ferocious last quarter comeback, the Cougars fell just short and the Eagles gained a sensational first up victory.

Final Score – Eagles – 10.12.72 to Cougars 10.6.66

Cougar Votes
1 Vote - Matty Neufeld
2 Votes - Stu Grills
3 Votes - Dale Hanley
4 Votes - Josh Lappin
5 Votes - Tony Cooper

Eagles Votes
1 Vote - Evan Wizirny
2 Votes - Randy Dickins
3 Votes - Stewy Green
4 Votes - Bobby Marshall
5 Votes - Shine Edgar

Game 2 - BC v Victoria April 23rd

• A glorious day of sunshine faced the BC convoy as the boys headed on the short ferry ride over to Victoria for the second NWPAFL game of the season and one which would be played as a combined side.
• As part of the pre-game pep talk, SuperCoach Grills shocked a few of the team veterans when he revealed his new coaching mantra for 2005 - breaking the game into a single game of 4 quarters, abolishing his tried and true formula of 4 games within a game.
• Newbys to the game Chris Bennett, Matty Neufeld and Big Al were sensational in their first games.
• The BC side was never really troubled as Bobby, Cashie and Shine dominated through the centre and constantly sent the ball into the Cougars forwardline.

Final Score – BC – 6.14.52 to Victoria 3.6.24

Votes
1 Vote - Matty Neufeld
2 Votes - Shine Edgar
3 Votes - Bobby Marshall
4 Votes - Brett Allan
5 Votes - Ash Bushell

Game 3 – Cougars v Eagles May 7th

• The Eagles were determined to send Skipper Bobby Dazzler out on a high note before he embarked on his extensive travels.
• In this titanic tussle, the lead for either side rarely got beyond two goals.
• Twice Grills kicked goals on the siren to get the Cougars within a goal of the Eagles.
• Playing in his last game, Bobby was sensational across the centerline, with Morgs dominating the backline.
• Aaron Wanders was superb for the Cougars as was Matty Neufeld once again.
• With only 2 minutes remaining the Cougars shot out to a 5 point lead. But a long bomb goal from Bobby and another late Eagles goal sealed a remarkable victory.

Final Score – Eagles – 12.7.79 to Cougars 10.11.71

Cougar Votes
1 Vote - Mike Settacasi
2 Votes - Josh Lappin
3 Votes - Matty Neufeld
4 Votes - Richie Roberts
5 Votes - Aaron Wanders

Eagles Votes
1 Vote - Colin Hilton
2 Votes - Nathan Dinsdale
3 Votes - Morgan DeChalin
4 Votes - John Dixon
5 Votes - Bobby Marshall

Game 4 – Cougars v Victoria May 14th

• For the first time ever, a 3 way tourney was organized b/w Vancouver, Burnaby and Victoria.
• With no official wins on the board for the season, the Cougars came out blazing and dominated the Lions from the start.
• Aaron Wanders and Richie Roberts dominated the centerline and set up many a goal for the Cougar forwards.
• The goals were largely shared around with the Cougar veterans - with Campion, Edmonds and Grills all hitting the score sheet.

Final Score – Cougars – 10.4.64 to Lions 2.5.17

Cougar Votes
1 Vote - Daniel Lowe
2 Votes - Chris Bennett
3 Votes - Josh Lappin
4 Votes - Aaron Wanders
5 Votes - Richie Roberts

Game 5 – Cougars v Eagles May 14th

• The absence of skipper Bobby Marshall would certainly have been a concern for Coach Freeman going into yet another tussle with the Cougars, but it quickly didn’t show.
• In the first really one-sided affair b/w these two teams, the Eagles got out to an early lead and kept on going with it.
• Edgar was dominant across the centre, kicking 3 delightful goals, while Hilton proved he’s still a goalsneak by bagging a couple himself.
• Wanders continued to be a force for the Cougars while Cashie and Coops tried hard for the Cougars.
• In the end, the Eagles were too strong.

Final Score – Eagles 8.4.52 to Cougars 4.11.35

Cougar Votes
1 Vote - Chris Bennett
2 Votes - Daniel Lowes
3 Votes - Richie Roberts
4 Votes - Tony Cooper
5 Votes - Aaron Wanders

Eagles Votes
1 Vote - Chris Freeman
2 Votes - Col Hilton
3 Votes - Shine Edgar
4 Votes - Colin Kelleher
5 Votes - Pete Taylor

Game 6 – Eagles v Victoria May 14th

• When the third game of the series kicked off, the Eagles faced a Victoria side strengthened by a number of Cougar players. From the start, the game was a tight affair.
• In one of his last games for the Eagles, Stewy “Pumps” Green played a great game off the backline, while Edgar and Freemo were strong across the centre.
• It wasn’t enough though, as when the final siren sounded, the Lions had finally posted their first win of the season.
Final Score – Eagles – 3.5.23 to Victoria 4.6.30

Eagles Votes
1 Vote - Morgan DeChalin
2 Votes - Nathan Dinsdale
3 Votes - Simon Nolan
4 Votes - Pete Taylor
5 Votes - Leigh Esler

Game 7 – Cougars v Eagles June 4th

• First game for Luscious Lewie who was superb all over the ground.
• Fisha strong through the centre for the Beagles.
• Walks bagged three goals
• Goalsneak Jase missed first half but turned the game on its head with 3 quick goals.
• Wasn’t enough as Cougars get a big win.

Final Score – Cougars 9.12.66 to 5.11.41

Cougar Votes
1 Vote - Teddy Murray
2 Votes - Mike Settacasi
3 Votes - Doug Vargo
4 Votes - Josh Lappin
5 Votes - Bub Bushell

Eagles Votes
1 Vote - Jase Stratford
2 Votes - Pete Taylor
3 Votes - Nate Dinsdale
4 Votes - Paul Lewis
5 Votes - Leigh Esler

Game 8 – BC FOOTY CUP Eagles v Alberta June 18th

• Despite playing in a losing side, Luscious set the tone of the tournament by getting at least 20 touches, laying about 10 tackles and kicking 3 goals for the Eagles in their opener. Probably the best individual performance in the tourney.
• Freeman defied all odds and playing full forward actually kicked a goal himself.

Final Score - Alberta 8.7.55 v Beagles 5.3.33

Eagles Votes
1 Vote - Dale Wakefield
2 Votes - Evan Wizirny
3 Votes - Leigh Esler
4 Votes - Steve Harper
5 Votes - Paul Lewis

Game 9 – BC FOOTY CUP Cougars v Alberta June 18th

• Very tight game from start to finish.
• Cashie got sent off early leaving the Cougars a man short for most of the game.
• Richie Roberts was strong across the centre.
• Guru – polaxed by three Alberta players.
• Coops kicked a rare goal.

Final Score - Alberta 5.8.38 to Cougars 5.5.35

Cougar Votes
1 Vote - James McMillian
2 Votes - MiMatty Neufeld
3 Votes - Stu Grills
4 Votes - Bub Bushell
5 Votes - Josh Lappin

Game 10 – BC FOOTY CUP Eagles v Lions June 18th

• Luscious dominated again.
• Lions stacked with players from other teams.
• Craig Attwood entertained the crowd with many speckie attempts.
• Freeman defied all odds and kicked ANOTHER goal.

Final Score - Beagles 5.3.33 to Lions 3.8.26

Eagles Votes
1 Vote - Leigh Esler
2 Votes - Steve Harper
3 Votes - Mark Robinson
4 Votes - Pete Taylor
5 Votes - Paul Lewis

Game 11 – BC FOOTY CUP Cougars v Seattle June 18th

Not to many good things to say about this game. Seattle in control for most of the game.

Final Score - Seattle 6.3.39 to Cougars 4.3.27

Cougar Votes
1 Vote - Nelson Ferret
2 Votes - Daniel Lowes
3 Votes - Peter Champion
4 Votes - Doug Vargo
5 Votes - Richie Roberts

Game 12 – BC FOOTY CUP Eagles v Seattle June 18th

• Stevie Harper continued to shine and played a great BC Cup tourney.
• Nick Mallen and Dale Wakefield proved to be great recruits across the centre for the Beagles.

Final Score – Seattle 4.5.29 to Beagles 3.4.22

Eagles Votes
1 Vote - Chris Freeman
2 Votes - Leigh Esler
3 Votes - Paul Lewis
4 Votes - DAle Wakefeld
5 Votes - Nick Hallam

Game 13 – Eagles v Cougars July 9th

• Cougars missing a few of their big guns and the Eagles pounced.
• Dale and Randy kicked 3 while Nick Mallen kicked 2.
• Playing in his first game for the Cougars, Troy Macri was one of the few shining lights.

Final Score – Beagles 11.11.77 to 4.10.34

Cougar Votes
1 Vote - Matty Neufeld
2 Votes - Chriss Bennett
3 Votes - Dale Hanley
4 Votes - Josh Lappin
5 Votes - Troy Macri

Eagles Votes
1 Vote - Dale Wakefield
2 Votes - Paul Lewis
3 Votes - Nick Hallam
4 Votes - Randy Dickins
5 Votes - Steve Harper

Game 14 - Eagles v Seattle July 23rd

• First 3 way tourney for the year at beautiful Thunderbird Stadium.
• Dinsdale was unstoppable in the ruck for the Eagles.
• Luscious and James Whisken controlled the centerline.
• Myk Aussie stared in the backline with Stevie Harper.
• The Eagles absolutely annihilated a weakened Seattle team all over the ground.

Final Score – 13.3.81 to 2.4.16

Eagles Votes
1 Vote - Nathan Dinsdale
2 Votes - Steve Harper
3 Votes - MyK Aussie
4 Votes - Paul Lewis
5 Votes - Nick Hallam

Game 15 – Eagles v Cougars July 23rd

• After their recent thrashing to the Eagles, from the start the Cougars came out like a team possessed.
• Cashie, Cashie Jnr and Neufy led the way with some huge tackles.
• Troy, Richie, Joshie and Vargo managed to squash the dangerous Eagles centerline.
• Campo and Grills slotted 5 b/w them and the Cougars ran out big winners, dishing out a thrashing of their own.

Final Score – Cougars 11.6.72 to Beagles 4.3.27

Cougar Votes
1 Vote - Doug Vargo
2 Votes - Ted Murray
3 Votes - Simon Bushell
4 Votes - Richie Roberts
5 Votes - Josh Lappin

Eagles Votes
1 Vote - Evan Wizirny
2 Votes - Pete Taylor
3 Votes - Nick Hallam
4 Votes - Simon Brand
5 Votes - MyK Aussie

Game 16 - Cougars v Seattle July 23rd

• Cougars wanted to keep the momentum up against Seattle and that’s exactly what happened.
• DJ Bennetron was awesome in the ruck.
• Times and time again, the Cougars centreline of Troy, Joshie and Cashie Jnr drilled the ball to the waiting chest of Vargo who relished being back at Full Forward bagging 6 goals.

Final Score - 10.6.66 to 2.3.15

Cougar Votes
1 Vote - Ash Bushell
2 Votes - Peter Champion
3 Votes - Troy Macri
4 Votes - Chris Bennett
5 Votes - Doug Vargo

Game 17 - Eagles v Seattle August 6th

• 3 way tourney in Seattle was eerily similar to the one at Thunderbird only a couple of weeks earlier.
• Eagles began slowly but eventually began to put on a show against the Grizzlies.
• Sammy Austin and Dinsdale were on fire across the forward flanks.
• Myk Aussie continued to defy age playing well across the backline.
• Big John played the game on about 1 hours sleep. It showed, but at least he was still moving around.
• Chris Marauder bagged a goal in his first game.
• Eagles crack the ton in scoring!!!

Eagles Votes
1 Vote - MyK Aussie
2 Votes - Simon Brand
3 Votes - Sam Austin
4 Votes - Nathan Dinsdale
5 Votes - Paul Lewis

Final Score – 16.6.102 to Seattle 8.2.50

Game 18 - Cougars v Seattle August 6th

• From the first bounce, the Cougars were never in trouble.
• Sammy Dynamite was superb across the half forwardline.
• Grills chipped in with 3 goals of his own.

Final Score – Cougars 13.10.88 to Seattle 5.5.35

Cougar Votes
1 Vote - Matty Neufeld
2 Votes - Stu Grills
3 Votes - Sammy Dynamite
4 Votes - Josh Lappin
5 Votes - Chris Bennett

Game 19 - Cougars v Eagles August 6th

• Probably one of the best games of the year, if not THE best.
• Eagles did an about turn on the Cougars from the last game, this time they were the ones delivering the huge tackles and hits.
• Lappo got a truckload of the ball for the Cougars; unfortunately his disposal at times was woeful.
• Grills was unstoppable across the forwardline and a couple of late goals inspired the Cougars onto victory.

Final Score - Cougars 8.8.54 to Eagles 7.8.50

Cougar Votes
1 Vote - Ash Bushell
2 Votes - Teddy Murray
3 Votes - Doug Vargo
4 Votes - Josh Lappin
5 Votes - Stu Grills

Eagles Votes
1 Vote - Sam Austin
2 Votes - MyK Aussie
3 Votes - Damien Chatfield
4 Votes - Paul Lewis
5 Votes - Steve Harper

Game 20 – BC v Alberta August 20, 2005

• It was with great anticipation and excitement that close to 20 Vancouver footy players piled into 3 mini-vans for the long road trip to Calgary, keen to seek some revenge after Calgary won the BC Footy Cup.
• BC had the luxury of a huge bench to draw from and players were rotated continuously to stay fresh.
• Teddy played an inspirational game.
• Cashie almost creamed himself playing against Timmy Brasher.
• Cashie Jnr. Looked like he was asleep all game but absolutely blanketed the dangerous Chrisso out of the game.
• After 2 and a half tight quarters, BC destroyed Alberta.

Final Score – BC – 11.11.77 to Alberta 6.11.47

Votes
1 Vote - Troy Macri
2 Votes - MyK Aussie
3 Votes - Steve Harper
4 Votes - Ted Murray
5 Votes - Ash Bushell

Game 21 - Cougars v Eagles September 11th

• Grand Final Day. From the start the Eagles looked they were there to win it all.
• Nick Mallen and Dale were strong across the centre while Sammy Austin was a handful up in the forwadline.
• Lappo and Cashie tried hard for the Cougars, but the Eagles just had to many winners everywhere.

Final Score - Eagles 7.5.47 to Cougars 2.2.14

Cougar Votes
1 Vote - Kyl Canadian
2 Votes - Josh Lappin
3 Votes - Chris Bennett
4 Votes - Richie Anadacoomaswarmy
5 Votes - Craig Walker

Eagles Votes
1 Vote - Dale Wakefield
2 Votes - Steve Harper
3 Votes - Sam Austin
4 Votes - Nick Hallam
5 Votes - Paul Lewis

Game 22 - Eagles v Seattle September 11th

• After a big win, it seemed a formality that the Eagles would run over Seattle and go straight into the Grand Final.
• It wasn’t meant to be as Seattle clearly brought up a full strength side. From early on they seemed to have the Eagles measure and slowly wore down a tiring side.

Final Score – Seattle 7.6.48 to Eagles 3.4.22

Eagles Votes
1 Vote - Damien Chatfield
2 Votes - Nick Hallam
3 Votes - Paul Lewis
4 Votes - Matt Skinhead
5 Votes - MyK Aussie

Game 23 - Cougars v Seattle September 11th

• Cougars needed to win this one and win it big after their thumping at the hands of the Eagles.
• Troy Macri, Simon Bushell and Lappo carved up the centre while Walks was on fire in the backline. The Cougars went into the half with a 20 point lead.
• Unfortunately the momentum couldn’t be sustained and the Grizzlies ended up snatching a hard fought win.

Final Score – Seattle 6.4.40 to Cougars 5.4.34

Cougar Votes
1 Vote - Craig Walker
2 Votes - Troy Macri
3 Votes - Paul Lewis
4 Votes - Richie Anandacoomaswarmy
5 Votes - Josh Lappin

Game 24 - Eagles v Seattle September 11th GRAND FINAL MATCH

• When it would finish this game would go down as a Grand Final classic.
• There wasn’t a single Eagle who wasn’t giving 100% to win the match and it would be very hard to have to pick the 5 best players.
• The game see-sawed throughout and it was only in the dying moments that Seattle took control and came out 2005 NWPAFL champions.

Final Score – Seattle 10.5.65 to Beagles 7.9.51

Eagles Votes
1 Vote - Sam Austin
2 Votes - Nick Hallam
3 Votes - MyK Aussie
4 Votes - Nathan Dinsdale
5 Votes - Steve Harper

2004 Season Summary (as used for B&F night)

2004-09-30T14:51:00.000-07:00

Game 1 – Cougars v Victoria

It was with great anticipation that the Cougars sailed across the straight to face the newly formed Victoria Lions. The day began sensationally with Tommy O not only making the ferry on time but also somehow managing to jump the queue ahead of the Cougar convoy.

The game began in gale force winds. Within minutes Campo had snagged his first for season. This was followed by a typically pretty Rob Marshall goal, then another from "The Phantom". Big Adam "The Brickwall" was solid at fullback repelling the Lion's time and again.

Randy Dick was on-fire in the forward line, while "Lion-for-the-day" Ash was proving a handful for the Cougars.

In a scene that would have brought a tear to "Fists" Thornton’s' eye, "Brad "The Jab" Gill brought the crowd to its' feet with an altercation in front of the grand stand.

Late in the last quarter, the Lions kicked an early goal to draw within 8 points, but the Cougars were not to be denied. But as the final siren sounded and the score was announced over the PA system, it was the Cougars home by 8 points: 6.3-39 to Victoria 4.5-31

No Votes issued

Game 2 – Cougars v Victoria

Yet another glorious Vancouver day in late May saw the Cougars come out for their 2nd hit out of the season against Victoria in a three-way mini tournament with Seattle.

The game saw Cougars legend and veteran Handyman Hilton reached the magic 25 game club. (He was joined in the very next game as Goalsneak Jase also posted 25 games).

Despite having just played a game only 30 minutes before, Victoria came out with guns a-blazing in the first half and the game was physically affair with some fantastic body on bodywork from both teams.

Campo, fresh from a 5 goal outing in the Cougars v Eagles game a few weeks before, was naturally thrust into the back-line for this game and played some inspirational football. Thanks to some hard fighting work in the packs by Becks and Shine, the Cougars showed passages of brilliance to bomb the ball deep into the forwardline.

One of the highlights of the game was the unearthing of a potentially new and devastating forwardline force – Andrew “Pretty Boy” Farr. Throughout the game he led hard and pulled down seemingly everything that came his way. Playing his first game in a long time, none other than Slim Keyhoe showed flashes of Dermie Breaton as he crashed the packs. First gamer Mike Setta snagged a great little goal from the pocket and the Cougars the Cougars were home. : 5.1-31 to Victoria 3.10.28

1 Vote - Doug Vargo
2 Votes - Cam Mitchell
3 Votes - Rob Marshall
4 Votes - Peter Champion
5 Votes - Andrew Farr

Game 3 – Cougars v Seattle

For Game 2 of the mini tournament it was traditional rivals Vancouver and Seattle the headed for battle.

As with the Victoria game, this game quickly settled into a hard hitting scrappy affair. The deadlock was broken early when Glamour Boy Vargo snuck down into the forward line, took a nice mark, spent the obligatory 30 odd seconds considering, but ultimately ignoring all leads, then proceeding to slot a nice left footer from the boundary to register his 50th career goal for the Cougars.

However, it was soon to be all Seattle as despite the relatively closeness of the game, Seattle got the better on the scoreboard as they proceeded to slot through four of the next 4 goals. Only a magnificent on the run goal by Special K kept the Cougars in it.

The Cougars would not be outdone however, kicking with the wind in the second half they began to take over. Campo was once again solid in the backline, while Punter Mitchell was playing a blinder in the back flank. The rest of the game was all Cougars as they peppered the goals. Goalsneak Stratford slotted 5 points as he just couldn’t quite manage to get it through the sticks.

Late in the game Cashie made his own highlight reel play as he proceeded to put in a thumping hip and shoulder that took out two Seattle players in one hit. In all, a solid come from behind win by the Cougars 4.11.35 to Seattle 4.1.25.

1 Vote - Jason Stratford
2 Votes - Peter Champion
3 Votes - Chris Freeman
4 Votes - Doug Vargo
5 Votes - Rob Marshall

Game 4 – Cougars v Victoria

Set to be the feature of the Richmond festival, it was with some disappointment that the Cougars showed up to magnificent Minoru Oval in Richmond to find a bunch of cricketers all over our ground. After an hour or so of uncertainty, the boys headed off to a nearby school where the Handyman was quick to do his thing and in no time, some goalposts were erected and a ground marked out.

Leading up to game time, the Lions were looking slick and determined. Due to a lack of numbers, the Lions were lucky enough to garner the services of some of the Cougars finest - as Campo, Handyman, Morgs, and Punter volunteered to make up their numbers. Whilst initially not keen to play for the Lions, Cashie quickly put his hand up after discovering the Lions had nice new lightweight jumpers that would make his muscles look big and shiney in the sunlight.

The game saw the unearthing of some great new talent for the Cougars as Ash Gas, Matty Werndog and Pumpkin Green all looked dangerous around the ground. As the game wore on, it quickly turned into a goalfest.

Despite reportedly “walking on one leg”, Pretty Boy Farr overcame his injury to score a couple of late goals as did Pumps who by his own account had gathered “around 10-15 grabs” for the game. Bobby chimed in with 3 goals himself in the rort. Coops, - under the “guise” of chasing his opponent drifted into the forwardline to try and add to his career tally of 1 goal. Unfortunately he could only post a couple of near misses.

The highlight of the last quarter though, had to be the magnificent smoother laid by Cashie for Victoria…. That is, the smother he laid with his head. After 3 & a 1/2 quarters of constant yapping, Cashie was remarkable quiet for a few moments as he imprinted the T.W.Sherrin mark imprinted on the side of his face. Play was temporarily stopped so all and sundry could basically have a good laugh. In the end, the Cougars by a blowout. 14.10.98 to Victoria 4.4.28

1 Vote - Stewy Green
2 Votes - Pete Taylor
3 Votes - Rob Marshall
4 Votes - Matt Werner
5 Votes - Ash Gasman

Game 5 – Cougars v Victoria

It was on a scorching hot 35-degree day that 15 Cougars headed down to Seattle for another 3-way mini-tournament between Vancouver, Seattle and Victoria.

Despite having just played a game only 30 minutes before, the Victoria boys came out and gave it everything they had. From the start, the Cougars centreline of Bobby, Freemo, and the Glamour Boy were in control and sending the ball long. Stewy “NoLongerDue” Green continued his good form from the previous game and registered an early major, one of four for the game. The Cougars welcomed back Goalsneak Jase who did his usual magic and weaved his way through some gaps to slot through 4 nice goals for the game.

As the game wore on the heat was beginning to catch up to the Victoria team as the fresher Cougars seemed to go from strength to strength. Fists seemed to be taking marks at will across the Centre Half Forwardline while the backline players were as per usual working hard and refusing to give up even a point without a fight. Coops and Pete Taylor as always formed the initial wall across the CHB line, while Ted Bundy, Robbo, Mick and Morgs wore their opponents like gloves.

In the end, the Cougars by a blowout - 12.9.81 to Victoria 1.5.9

1 Vote - Evan Wizirny
2 Votes - Stewy Green
3 Votes - Jason Stratford
4 Votes - Andrew Thornton
5 Votes - Doug Vargo

Game 6 – Cougars v Seattle

Despite now having to deal with the Seattle Sun, the second game of the min tournament was remarkably similar to game one, with the Cougars asserting dominance early across the field and on the scoreboard. As a result.

The only significant difference was the dominance of big Andrew “Fists” Thornton who played out the second game at full-forward after having sustained a minor foot injury in the first game. From the first quarter it was obvious that Fists has mastered the art of using his big arse to bump his opponents out of the way to take a number of nice, almost uncontested, marks. The big man played this move to perfection and snagged 5 classy goals.

The game also saw the emergence of a new force at the Cougars Andrew “Pretty Boy” Farr became Andrew “The Farrtrain” Farr. In an awesome display of ferocity (either that or just pure luck), the Farrtrain mowed down Seattle ruckman Big John, a man 3 inches and about 50 pounds heavier, with a bone crunching hip and shoulder. As Big John gasped for breath on the ground, the Farrtrain’s only concern was the nail on his little pinky finger that was slightly torn from the bump.

1 Vote - Chris Freeman
2 Votes - Tony Cooper
3 Votes - Rob Marshall
4 Votes - Andrew Thornton
5 Votes - Pete Taylor

Game 7 – Vancouver vs. Victoria

Playing the 3rd installment of the BC Footy Cup, it was a determined Vancouver Cougars who were determined to keep their trophy firmly in BC and continue their season unbeaten steak alive.
Big Pete Taylor continued his solid mid season form and proved that age is no barrier with another sensational game across the CHB line. The Cougars centleline was very solid with the Glamour having a good game in the ruck and constantly feeding it to the likes of Bobby and Ash Gas who seemed to be all over the ground. Gassy put in a couple of claims for mark of the year as the little man rose up on more than one occasion.

The goals were spread amongst the forwards as the Farr-train, Werndog and Goalsneak Stratford logged a couple each. The Guru came out for his first game of the season and as always slotted in right next to his backline mate Coops as they stitched up the backline.

Once again, it was the efforts of the Cougars northern stars that burned brightly for the Cougars. Robbo and Mikey Setta were constantly getting into great position and making their presence felt.

In the end the Cougars were simply too good for the Lions. 8.9.63 to Victoria 3.3.21.

1 Vote - Chris Freeman
2 Votes - Pete Taylor
3 Votes - Andrew Farr
4 Votes - Craig Shepard
5 Votes - Ash Gasman

Game 8 – Vancouver vs. Alberta Magpies

After a solid win vs. Victoria in their first game the combined team of the Calgary Kangaroos and Red Deer Magpies were fired up to take on the home team the Cougars.
As they did with Victoria, Alberta came out blazing through the centre and tested the Cougars backline early.

From the start, the Magpies came out blazing and delivered the ball long into their forwardline. Pete Taylor was once again the rock for the Cougars and seemed to be a magnet for the ball.

Coops showed his back-to-back B&F form by playing his best game of the season across the backline, while the Werndog was solid across the CHF line.

Happy Freeman, Gassy and Shep were trying their best across the centre, while the Farr-train slotted a couple up forward with Mike Setta continuing to show solid improvement in the pocket.

The Cougars battled hard, but could not defeat the Magpies in a low scoring affair.
Final Score - Van 4.5.29 v Alberta 6.9.45

1 Vote - Tony Cooper
2 Votes - Jason Straford
3 Votes - Ash Gasman
4 Votes - Matty Werner
5 Votes - Pete Taylor

Game 9 – Cougars v Victoria

As the Cougars road train headed towards Tsawwassen for the short ferry ride over to Victoria, the signs were ominous early as the thick black clouds began to close in at a rapid rate and the boys arrived into Victoria as the rain began to tumble at a thunderous rate.

As the crew unloaded at Landsdowne High School, the Cougars, (already down to 16 players) began to realise something was missing. That something turned out to be Morgan. Yeeeess, despite sitting with us on the ferry, putting his bag downstairs in Teddy’s car, young Morgan didn’t really clue into the fact that when the ferry arrived into Victoria he needed to go down to the car !!

From the start of the game, the Cougars were faced with the unfortunate story of having to line up with 14 players to Victoria’s 17. Despite this, the Cougar’s were determined to battle on.

From the opening bounce, the Lions were superb. Despite extremely sloppy condition, the Lions centreline seemed to have the ball on a string and by the end of the first quarter, the Lions had piled on 5 goals to nil. The total would probably have been a lot greater had it not been for the fearless backline play of The Rock Bannan, Guru Edmonds, Pete Taylor and the Glamour Boy. As the wet ball turned the game into a war of attrition Bobby Marshall was the one inspiration in the centre for the Cougars and was constantly diving into packs to try and get some movement happening.

However, as the third and fourth quarters played out, the Cougars just could not get on the scoreboard.

Final Score – Cougars 0.1.01 to Victoria 9.8.62.

1 Vote - Andrew Farr
2 Votes - Ash Bushell
3 Votes - Rob Edmonds
4 Votes - Brendan Bannan
5 Votes - Rob Marshall

Game 10 – The Grand Final Cougars v Seattle

The 2004 Grand Final will probably be remembered in the history books, not for the superb last quarter effort by the boys to snatch a 3rd NWPAFL title, but for the number and magnitude of injuries sustained by the team.

From the start, Vancouver looked strong, and the Cougars forwardline was switched on. Randy Dick was proving very elusive and took some great marks up forward while Goalsneak Jase and the Farr-train were causing headaches for the Seattle backman as they slotted home a couple of goals between them.

A couple of undisciplined plays by the Cougars resulted in two 50 metre penalties that allowed the Grizzlies to get right back in the game. Teddy Bundy continued to impress with his disciplined play and hard straight lines at the ball. Midway through the 2nd quarter the craziness began. The Cougars lost its major playmaker and Captain Bobby Marshall to a knee injury, which saw him out for the game. Moments later, Johnny Klump had a freak fall and he ended up breaking his cheekbone and his nose. Punter Mitchell then had a clash of heads with an opponent and ended up having his head split open. Next, it was Shine’s turn. Going for seemingly an innocent ball, he fell awkwardly and ended up breaking his wrist!! With moments left in the quarter, Johnny Milleur – having done his knee in last years Grannie managed to fracture his collarbone.

It surely couldn’t get worse for the Cougars, but within minutes of the 3rd quarter starting, Glamour Boy Vargo copped an elbow to the side of the head which not only semi-concussed him, but as he tried to stand up, he managed to roll his ankle as he fell back down. So with 6 players now missing from various position’s all over the ground, it was time for others to step up, and that they did. Shep really cranked it up a notch and was seemingly everywhere across the centre. The Farr-Train begun to make the forwardline his own. The big man was taking marks all over the place while Goalsneak Jase was having a great Grand Final and slotted home his 3rd for the game to give the Cougars some much needed breathing space. In the end, it was a resurgent Cougars who had dug down deep and cracked the title.

Cougars 9.7.63 to Seattle 8.4.52

1 Vote - Colin Hilton
2 Votes - Jason Straford
3 Votes - Randy Dickins
4 Votes - Craig Shepard
5 Votes - Andrew Farr

Final Tally

19 Votes - Rob Marshall
14 Votes - Pete Taylor
14 Votes - Andrew Farr
13 Votes - Ash Gas
10 Votes - Doug Vargo
8 Votes - Matty Werndog
8 Votes - Andrew Thornton
8 Votes - Jason Stratford
8 Votes - Craig Shepard
6 Votes - Peter Campion
5 Votes - Chris Freeman
4 Votes - Brendan Bannan
3 Votes - Rob Edmonds
3 Votes - Randy Dickins
3 Votes - Stew Green
3 Votes - Tony Cooper
2 Votes - Ash Bushell
2 Votes - Cam Mitchell
1 Vote - Evan Wizirny
1 Vote - Colin Hilton

2004 Grand Final Report

2004-09-19T14:48:00.000-07:00

UBC Hospital quadruples Saturday business as Cougars win 3rd Premiership

What a year it’s been. The start of the year saw sweeping changes to the Cougars board. None was bigger than former Prez “Chops” McGrath retiring from duty and heading home to Australia. He was aply replaced by the dedicated President Cooper; Happy Freeman assumed coaching duties after former SuperCoach Grills was ungraciously sacked and sent to Australia for a year of coaching councelling - a direct result of last year’s Grand Final Loss; More Canadians continued to join the club and play our great game; Mike McFarlane continued to grow the kids footy, which is exploding into humongous numbers; The Cougars being stripped of their BCFooty Cup title for the first time, by the Alberta Magpies; The rise of the Victoria Lions, surely a force to be reckoned with next year. The only thing left was the Grand Final.

Could the most successful on-field year of the Cougars, (with a 7-2 record), be topped off by winning the NWPAFL title, so cruely snatched from them by a determined Seattle Grizzlies last year?

As always, the hype leading up to the Grand Final was monumentus. With Thunderbird Stadium booked again, the boys were pumped for a huge day. After resounding victory’s in only the two times these teams had met this year, the Cougars were determined to polish off the Grizzlies to maintain a perfect season record, and to win back the Premiership.

So what would be the outcome….time as always would tell.

Pre-Game

Unlike previous big games at Thunderbird stadium, there were no big dramas this year. The goalposts and other hardware arrived and were erected in plenty of time, the trophy was not lost in a Langley Trophy store, and the Pies were hot and tasty before the first bounce.

As game time approached, the crowd was reaching formidable numbers. Despite having a few injury woes, Seattle came up to Vancouver with 17 players and newboy Benny agreed to volunteer to play for Seattle to give them a full 18. RookieCoach Freeman on the other hand was blessed with his biggest turnout for the season, with a team of 25 players, 11 of which were non-Aussies, insuring Vancouver could play with at least a 50/50 split at all times. Not only that, Freemo was blessed with the services of one Peter “Phantom” Campion. Having controversially played with Seattle in last year’s Grand Final, Campo suited up for the Cougars determined to be the only player to play in 4 straight NWPAFL premiership teams.

As the players left the change room, the Cougar banner was raised. This year it celebrated the milestone achievement of 5 players who had cracked the 25 game barrier for the Cougars – Goalsneak Stratford, HandyMan Hilton, GlamourBoy Vargo, President Coops and “Manboobs/Morgs/Might and Fury” DeChalin.

Before the first bounce, the club managed to once again secure the services of Melissa to belt out rousing additions of the Australian, US and Canadian national anthems. The crowd and players were brought to fever pitch, ….it was time for the game.

Quarter 1

From the start, Vancouver looked strong, but Seattle proved they have good memories of Thunderbird stadium and slammed home the first goal of the game. The Cougars however had started the game with its strongest centreline of Glamour, Bobby, Shep and Fremmo, and they quickly wrestled the game back into the Cougars favour. It wasn’t long before they were getting the ball out of the centre time and time again.

As the ball went forward, from the start the Cougars forwardline was switched on. Randy Dick was proving very elusive and took some great marks up forward, one of which lead to a goal. Goalsneak Jase and the Farr-train were causing headaches for the Seattle backman and slotted home a couple of goals between them.

It was all Cougars in the first quarter as they managed to hold the ball in the forwardline for most of the quarter. Bobby and Glamour controlled the centreline wall, repelling anything that came their way. At quarter time, it was a surging Cougars who assembled for the quarter time break.

Q1 Cougars 4.5.29 to Seattle 1.1.7

Quarter 2

After some inspiration words from the RookieCoach, the Cougars headed out to the field determined to continue the barrage. Once again, from the start the Cougars looked strong out of the centre, but the game was quickly about to take a major turn. Seattle began to crank up their play and put the pressure back on the Cougars. Two undisciplined plays by the Cougars resulted in two 50 metre penalties that allowed the Grizzlies to score a couple of goals and suddenly they were right back in the game. The mood was contagious amongst their players and with their travelling support crowd going berserk, they were making a solid game of it.

As they have done for the whole season, it was now time for the Cougars backline to kick it up a gear, and that they did. As always, Coops and Pete Taylor lead their charges from the front with some strong marks across the CHB line. Teddy Bundy continued to impress (as he has all season) with his disciplined play and hard straight lines at the ball, while Special K and The Rock Bannan seemed to be having a tackling contest, as they crunched their opponents deep in the pockets. After Goalsneak slotted home a steading goal for the Cougars, the craziness began.

Midway through the quarter, the Cougars lost it’s major playmaker and Captain Bobby Marshall to a knee injury, which would see him out for the game as his knee swelled up to the size of a basketball. Moments later, Johnny Klump had a freak fall and after a player landed awdwardly on him, he ended up breaking his cheekbone and his nose. It was straight off to UBC Hospital for Klumpy. Things proceeded to get worse. Moments later, Punter Mitchell had a clash of heads with an opponent after going hard at the ball and ended up having his head split open. It was off to the hopsital to join Johnny and get himself 10 stitches. Surely that would be it.

Nope. Next, it was Shine’s turn. Never one to miss a big game, Shine made the trip all the way down from Cortez Island for the day. Unfortunately, going for seemingly an innocent ball, he fell awkwardly on his hand and ended up breaking his wrist!! At this stage UBC Hospital must have been wondering if they should just relocate to Thunderbird Stadium. With a few minutes left in the quarter, of course there was time for one more. Johnny Milleur - after doing his knee in last years Grannie and finally being fit enough to play after having a knee operation during the year, was playing his first game for the season. So what happened – he managed to fracture his collarbone. He now holds the auspicious Cougar record of - two games, two major injuries !! As half time approached, the Cougars limped into the changerooms with a narrow lead.

Cougars 5.6.36 to Seattle 5.2.32

Quarter Three

With the game taking such an interesting twist, it was time for the Premiership quarter. Within minutes, the injury woes continued as Glamour Boy Vargo copped an elbow to the side of the head which not only semi-concussed him, but as he tried (unsuccessfully) to stand up, he managed to roll his ankle as he fell back down. So with 6 players now missing from various position’s all over the ground, it was time for others to step up, and that they did.

The veteran - Guru Edmonds came on proved he’s still got it with some tough play across the backline. Cashie, Robbo and Morgs continued to fight hard for the ball in the back line and stop the Seattle players from snagging a goal. Stewy Green stepped up across the CHB and sent up many forward thrusts from the HBFlank. Shep really cranked it up a notch and was seemingly everywhere across the centre, using his speed to send the ball into the forwardline where the Farr-Train had begun to make his own. The big man was taking marks all over the place. Still, in a tight quarter, neither team could establish much attack and the scores remained tight.

Q3 Cougars 5.7.37 to Seattle 5.3.33

Quarter 4

So it was onto the last. It’s fair to say both teams were starting to look a bit tired but both could taste the premiership cup. The Grizzlies were desperate to claw back for the win, while the Cougars were desperate to hold on.

Goalsneak Jase was having a great Grand Final and slotted home his 3rd for the game early to give the Cougars some much needed breathing space. Handyman Hilton and Freemo had taken over the duties in the centre and both snagged a goal in the last quarter as the Cougars began to lift as a team, hungry for the Cup. Despite nursing an injury himself, the ever dnagerous Shevlan bagged a couple of goals for Seattle to keep them close. However, the Cougar were not to be denied on this occasion. Shep and the Farr-train continued their second half dominance into the last quarter, with the Farr-Train topping his perfomance with another nice goal in the last quarter to make it three for the game. Mike Setta continued to take some telling grabs in the pocket while the Wiz was fighting to the end.

Without a scoreboard, there was some confusion over who had won in the end, but this time is was resurgant Cougars who had dug down deep and cracked the title.

Q4 Cougars 9.7.63 to Seattle 8.4.52

Goal Kickers –
Farr-train (3), Goal sneak (3), Happy (1), HandyMan (1), Randy (1).

Bests (from) –
Farr-train, Shep, Randy D.

After match

The players remained on field for the presentation of the Premiership Cup. Once again, the Cougars managed to procure the services of special guest Lord Mayor Larry Campbell who presented the Cup to a joyous Bobby Marshall.

…so unlike last year, this time it was a jubilant Cougars that headed back to the change rooms and later the clubrooms for a couple of hours of post match bevies. An emotional Cougar’s coach Happy Freeman was quick to let former SuperCoach Stu Grills know via phone link up, that he’d managed to do the job and win back the title. (Happy clearly letting Grills know that his return to coaching duties is certainly not a guaranteed thing…). After the call, the obligatory ice bath was dished out to RookieCoach Freeman, who was wise to the ruse to trick him into it, but in the end, he happily accepted it regardless. This after being “assured” that the water was not freezing – yeah right son.

Even further after match

It wasn’t long before an increasingly jubilant Cougars headed off to Bimini’s for more and more post match bevies. The Cougars looked a treat in their new t-shirts which arrived just in time for the Grannie, as they quickly filled up Bimini’s. Despite an early threat by management to cut off the boys after a certain Cougar foolishly decided to through a wet towell at one of the barman, some quick words by Slim smoothed the waters and the night continued on…

The night continued into the wee hours with a few of the boys even kicking on to Doolin’s, the traditional 2nd home of the Cougars.

Even more mayhem…

If Saturday wasn’t enough, the post-premiership day celebration was held at Malone’s in Kits for even more bevvies as the boys sadly watched Leyton Hewitt go out in straight sets at the US Open. Two Cougars who definitely did not get bundled out so easily were Stewy Green and Bobby Marshall who basically did not stop drinking from 4pm on the Saturday to about midnight on the Sunday – great effort boys.

Thanks

As always, it takes a lot of people to put together such a magnificent game.

Thanks to –
• The Cougars committee for all their hard work throughout the year;
• Dr.Khan and Arnie Parmer for their Umpiring;
• All Cougar players who sacrificed playing time to help boundary/goal umpire;
• Slim for his tireless Pie Cooking and other behind the scenes work;
• All the girls for their support and Pie selling; and
• to all the wives/girlfriends/kids and supporters who came out to watch the games throughout the year.

2003 Season Summary (as used for B&F Night)

2003-09-30T14:37:00.000-07:00

Game 1 – Vancouver vs. Seattle

With Cougars Prez Chops McGrath chomping at the bit with Richmond at the top of the AFL ladder, the Cougars made the long trip south in the season opener against Seattle. Cougars resident Handyman Col Hilton was dealt a pre-match blow when the Grizzlies unveiled their highly-improved scoreboard which clearly topped Col’s masterpiece from the prior year.

As the team was announced, Super Coach Grills brimmed with pride as for the first time, the Cougars were successfully fielding a side that was 50% Non-Australian, 50% Australian. A great performance for a club in only its 3rd year.

In his first game for the club, “Locks” Paquin was sensational across CHB, whilst Adelaide bred Jarroyd Thorne was superb at FullBack. Shine Edgar was dominating in the centre, whilst Glamourboy Vargo put his pre-season knee troubles behind by bagging 7 goals from full-forward. In the end, the Cougars were simply to strong for the Grizzlies.

Final Score - Van 12.6.78 v Sea 3.10.28

1 Vote – Shine Edgar
2 Votes – Craig Paquin
3 Votes – Doug Vargo

Game 2 – Vancouver vs. Seattle

The first game ever held at Brown Park in Langley, the Cougars went into this game desperate to rack up their 2nd win in a row against Seattle. The match had received some great Pre-Game exposure from a feature article in the Langley Times and the Cougars were keen to show the locals what the game is all about.

The Grizzlies were keen for revenge, and were warming up on the ground a good half hour before the Cougars hit the turf. The game kicked off at a good pace and Seattle spelled out their intentions early with 3 quick goals. After the fury of the first ten minutes the Cougars settled and started to get their running game going. Coops was in the game early, as was Mike McFarlane and Shine Edgar to keep the Cougars within striking distance.

For the second game in a row the Cougars Canadian contingent shone, with solid efforts from Craig Paquin, Jason "Terrier" Horychun, Colin Kelleher, Nelson Ferrett Brad Gill, Mark Robertson and the Wiz. Despite Seattle flooding the forward line, Stratford did his best up forward bagging three to try and keep the Cougars in it, but in a low scoring affair Seattle managed to hold on at the line.

Final Score - Van 4.12.36 v Sea 6.7.43

1 Vote - Brad Gill
2 Votes - Chris Freeman
3 Votes - Tony Cooper

Game 3 – Vancouver vs. Calgary

After a solid thumping of Seattle in their first game the Calgary Kangaroos were pumped up to take on the home team (and crowd favorites) the Cougars.

As they did with Seattle, Calgary came out blazing through the centre and tested the Cougars backline early. The scoreline could have been a lot greater had not the pre-season brooding of the Canadian Cougars showed tremendous fruition. 2nd year players Brendan “Bonecrusher” Bannan and Morgan “The Kid” deChalin were all over their Calgary opponents, whilst Craig “Locks” Paquin again let it be known that he would be hard to dislodge from Centre Half Back.

The boys were led by 2002 B&F winner Coops who was superb all day across the back. First gamer Andrew Thornton quickly earnt the nickname “Fists” when he was involved in an early fracas, while Chops, Shiner and the Handyman battled all day in the centre. The Cougars stormed home, but could not defeat the Roos in a low scoring affair.

Final Score - Van 3.4.22 v Cal 4.5.29

1 Vote - Stu Grills
2 Votes - Tim McGrath
3 Votes - Tony Cooper

Game 4 – Vancouver vs. Seattle

Going into the game against Seattle, the Cougars knew they had to pull out something impressive out to ensure they weren’t bundled out of their own tournament in straight sets. The boys were also keen to seek some revenge after a crushing home defeat to the Grizzlies only a few weeks earlier. Still, Seattle were not going to go out without a fight and were equally keen to put in a good display to avoid an early exit for the second year in a row.

Once again, it was the efforts of the Cougars northern stars that burned brightly for the Cougars. Brad Gill and The Wiz were constantly getting into great position in the forward line and making their presence felt, whilst Jason Horychun and Nelson Ferrett were getting a large piece of it across the wings.

Fists dominated again around the rucks whilst Shiner was picking up stats all over the ground. Paul Jennings defied his 40+ age and showed he can still play some good footy, whilst the McClean Brothers put in a great effort across the backline together with yet another great performance from Coops.

In the end the Cougars were simply too good for the Grizzlies.

Final Score - Van 9.6.60 v Seatte 6.2.38

1 Vote - Shine Edgar
2 Votes - Nelson Ferrett
3 Votes - Chris Freeman

Game 5 – Vancouver vs. Calgary

Despite some aching muscles and a few hangovers from the previous night’s do at the Hop and Vine Bar, it was time for the Grand Final. The day couldn’t have turned out better as glorious sunshine bathed the Burnaby Lakes Complex. The Cougars were hungry for victory, and were quietly confident after their fine display in the last 10 minutes of the previous Calgary game. The Grand Final reverted from the smaller 25 minute half games of day to a full 20 minute quarter spectacular, and it was thought that the Cougars would have the edge in fitness.

The Roos showed up to the ground looking worse for wear from their previous encounter against the highly conditioned Cougars and several key players could not come up for the final. The Cougars took full advantage and despite Calgary having a small first quarter lead, a 7 goal to 1 second quarter saw the Cougars skip out to a lead which they would never relinquish. “Goalsneak” Jase almost required an ice bath because he was absolutely on fiiirrrrrrreee booting 3 magnificent goals from the forward flank and almost single handedly turned the game around.

Fists was once again dominate in the Ruck and he provided a constant stream to his centreline in Happy Freeman, “Handyman” Hilton, “Chops” McGrath, Shine Edgar and Wolverine Utting who were all carving up the centreline.
GlamourBoy Vargo took over from forward partner Stratford in the 2nd half and finished the game with a bag of 7 goals.

Final Score – Van 15.8.98 v Calgary 4.5.29

1 Vote - Craig Paquin
2 Votes - Doug Vargo
3 Votes - Andrew Thornton

Game 6 – Vancouver vs. Seattle

Due to some border complications, the Cougars unfortunately arrived at Seattle’s ground with limited prep time before the game. Still, under no circumstances did the team want Seattle to get away to a fast start like they did in the most recent Home and away game in Langley. Unfortunately that’s exactly what happened.

Despite Fists staring through the centre to try and get the Cougars on the board, Seattle would not let the ball penetrate the Cougars forward line and managed to maintain a sizeable 7 goal to one lead at half time.

Fill in Super Coach Guru Edmonds made two of his most tactical moves of the day by throwing in little used Glamour Boy Vargo to the Ruck and putting himself to the Back Flank to rejoin his partner in crime on the other flank - Coops. The move’s paid off instantly. Vargo, started to dominate the tap out’s and Shiner, Handyman, Blocky and Chops lapped it up and pumped the ball deep into the forward line.

With Coops starring and the rigid backline repelling everything, the Cougars were on a rampage and went into 3 quarter time only 7 points down. Newboy Cam Mitchell was proving he’ll be a player of the future, making sure he was getting amongst it, whilst the Wiz and Nelson had great games themselves. However, in the end the Cougars just could not get back the big lead they’d conceded.

Final Score - Van 7.9.51 v Sea 9.8.63

1 Vote - Evan Wizirny
2 Votes - Andrew Thornton
3 Votes - Tony Cooper

Game 7 – Vancouver vs. Calgary

In a first for the young Cougars, the team headed over to Calgary for the Inaugural Stampede Cup. The Cougars were fired up for a chance to take home the Cup and a full contingent of 20 players headed over for the big game.

The team arrived to see a massive 180 metre ground which was not only rock hard, but actually had bits of rock and bitumen on the surface. The day was a scorcher, and the mood electric as the boys conducted their pre-game warm up and got themselves ready for the big clash. The Cougars hit the field with their largest ever contingent of Canadians on the field (10 out of 18 players) a great sign for football development in Vancouver.

As expected, the Roos centreline was dominate and sent many a thrust forward. The Cougars backline was brilliant and kept the ball out time and time again. The Guru was relishing his position back on the flank and coupled as ever with his old mate Coops, they got plenty of touches throughout the day. Through the centre, Former Ladies Man Utting was playing like a man possessed. He constantly threw his body on the line time and time again, getting into a few scuffles along the way that would have made Fists proud. Blocky, SuperCoach and Ferret were all good for the Cougars, but in the end Calgary was just too strong.

Final Score - Van 5.4.34 v Calgary 8.13.61

1 Vote - Rob Edmonds
2 Votes - Mark Robertson
3 Votes - Jim Utting

Game 8 – Vancouver vs. Denver

The first Canadian Invitational saw the US Champs – Denver make a highly anticipated journey to Vancouver to take on arguably Canada’s best team. Despite easy dispatching of Seattle in the first game, from the opening bounce, the Bulldogs realized they were in for a fight against the Cougars. Fielding arguably their strongest centreline ever of Fists, Shine, Handyman Hilton, Mugsy, FLM (Former Ladies Man) Utting and Happy, the Cougars were not letting the Denver boys have their way in the middle.

Fists was chomping at the bit to play having missed the Calgary trip, and it showed in his play as he began to rack up possession’s all over the ground. The Dogs still managed to thrust the ball into attack on a number of occasions, but they hadn’t taken account of the Cougars backline brilliance. SuperCoach Grills brought himself into CHB and was inspirational. The Cougars went into half time with a narrow 2 point lead.

The second half was easily one of the greatest 25 minutes in North American football history. The Cougars hit the front almost immediately with a trademark freakish Stratford snap which sent the crowd into a frenzy. From then on, it was two teams going as hard as they could for the footy, and trading goal for goal. Handyman Hilton was having the game of his life in the centre and lapped up the tireless ruck work of Fists and Tommy O. Grills and Mugsy were proving inspirational and repelled Bulldog attack time and time again. However, with barely 2 minutes to go, the Dogs snapped a quick goal to take a match winning 3 point lead.

Final Score – Van 6.1.37 v Denver 6.4.40

1 Vote - John Millieur
2 Votes - Stu Grills
3 Votes - Colin Hilton

Game 9 – Vancouver vs. Seattle

Despite the devastation of losing such a close game to the US Champs, the Cougars quickly refocused themselves for their next opponents – The Seattle Grizzlies.

As always, with a game b/w these two teams, it started with a flurry. Seattle quickly proved that they were not just in Vancouver to make up the numbers and were determined not to go home two time losers. Once again, Fists was dominate in the ruck and seemed to win the hitouts with ease. Completely un-sited in the Denver game, the Glamourboy was in the mix and banged home 4 goals and set up another two.

Despite being tied at 20 points a piece at the half, the Cougars quickly went into overdrive. It seemed that every Cougar was getting their hand on plenty of the ball. Handyman Hilton was on fire again whilst Terrier Horychun virtually shut the dangerous Chevlen out of the game all together allowing the Cougars centerline to run rampant. Brad Gill had one of his best game and topped off his performance with a fantastic goal.

Final Score - Van 8.6.54 v Sea 5.4.34

1 Vote - Brad Gill
2 Votes - Jason Horychun
3 Votes - Andrew Thornton

Game 10 – Vancouver vs. Seattle

The Cougars hit the Grand Final determined to go 3 straight against arch rival Seattle. It was an emotional lead up to the game with the knowledge that Cougars stalwarts - SuperCoach Grills, Chops McGrath and COBS McFarlane were all playing potentially their last games for the Cougars. Despite missing several games with troublesome shoulders, Chops applied 10 layers of sticky tape to ensure he’d be in the side.

From the start, it quickly became obvious that Seattle had done their homework on the Cougars with coach Donlen throwing the surprise move of lining up the dangerous Justin Chevlen at Full Forward. He also took full advantage of using Cougar Mugsy in the centre and the results were devastating. Before they knew it, the Cougars were down 4 goals to zip, with Chevlan claiming 3 of them. The Seattle boys had come to play and shot to a 5 goal lead at the first break.

Grills switched GlamourBoy Vargo into the ruck and Fists to Full Forward after Fists went down with a leg injury. The result was superb. GlamourBoy carved up the centre and Fists returned the favour by bagging a number of goals.

The Cougars edged back all day with everyone getting a piece of it. Happy, Cam Mitchell, Johnny Hoad and Ice Block saved their best for the Grand Final, but in the end, Seattle would not be denied.

Final Score - Van 20.10.130 v Seattle 6.12.48

1 Vote - Cam Mitchell
2 Votes - Chris Freeman
3 Votes - Doug Vargo

Final Votes -

9 Votes - Tony Cooper
8 Votes - Andrew Thornton
8 Votes - Doug Vargo
7 Votes - Chris Freeman
3 Votes - Colin Hilton
3 Votes - Craig Paquin
3 Votes - Jim Utting
3 Votes - Stu Grills
2 Votes - Brad Gill
2 Votes - Jason Horychun
2 Votes - Mark Robertson
2 Votes - Nelson Ferret
2 Votes - Shine Edgar
2 Votes - Tim McGrath
1 Vote - Cam Mitchell
1 Vote - Evan Ozirny
1 Vote - John Meilleur
1 Vote - Rob Edmonds

2003 Grand Final Report

2003-09-20T14:34:00.000-07:00

A lot of Guts but no Glory

What a year. More Canadians playing for the Cougars than ever before, the kids footy exploding to humongous numbers, the Cougars narrowly losing to the US Champs in the match of the year, the road trip to Calgary – we had it all. Could the year be topped of with a 3rd NWPAFL title (in-a-row)?!!

As always, the hype leading up to the Grand Final was monumentus. With Thunderbird Stadium booked again, the boys were pumped for a huge day. It was an emotional week for the SuperCoach as he put his charges through two high intensity trainings in the lead up to the big game. Stu’s emotions spilled over on Monday as he thanked the boys for a great year and stated that it would be his 2nd last as coach for quite a while. On Thursday, he again thanked the boys for a great year and stated that it would be his last as a coach for quite a while (he later thank the boys again on Saturday stating it would be his last game as a coach for quite a while).

After resounding home victory’s the last two times these teams have met, the Cougars were hungry to polish off the Grizzlies to maintain their perfect Grand Final record.

However, as the game day record stated - the 2003 season had been anything but one sided. Both teams had sterling victories away from home against the other during the early part of the year and Vancouver was holding a slight 3-2 lead in the head-to-head games during the year.

Thunderbird Stadium held good fortune for both sides. Vancouver went into the game off a solid 20 point victory against Seattle in the recent Canadian Invitational, whilst many Seattle (and Vancouver) players will still remember the 57 point schlacking handed out to the Cougars in August of 2002.

So what would be the outcome….time as always would tell.

Pre-Game

What would such a day be without a bit of drama? After withdrawing his pending lawsuit against the club and being welcomed back with open arms, Handyman Hilton assured the boys there would be no dramas regarding the delivery of the goalposts and other hardware, and that they would reach the ground with plenty of time.

To ensure everything was right, the Handyman even packed his truck up a day early. He was also motivated by wife Kim who had instructed him to get it all out of the way so they could have a nice romantic wedding anniversary dinner on match eve. Unfortunately, midway through the first bottle of vino, it suddenly dawned on Hilton that the trophy (to be presented by Vancouver Lord Mayor Larry Campbell), was in fact still sitting in a Langley Trophy Store. After the obligatory 10 minutes of panic, and flashes of being lynched by the Cougars committee, Col calmed down enough to pull out the phone book and make some desperate phone calls around Langley. Thankfully, around 11p.m, after a ruined dinner and a lot of heartache, Col eventually managed to locate the owner’s and arrange to pick up the trophy early the next morning. With the news, a joyous Hilton was able to get a good’s night sleep despite being informed he’d be doing it from the family couch.

As game time approached, the crowd was reaching formidable numbers. With only half an hour before the game, an as always generous SuperCoach Grills granted Seattle’s request for additional players to help their depleted numbers (despite bringing up 18 players). Asking purely for volunteers, Mugsy, Stevie Yates, Derek and Campo headed the call and made the hard decision to play for Seattle. Once again, the SuperCoach should be applauded for making such a tough decision to support the good of the game (especially with the players provided), one that is too often not reciprocated by Seattle in similar situations.

Still, with a playing list of 26 players, there was plenty of Cougar talent on offer to retain their premiership title. As the players left the change room, the Cougar banner was raised with the inspirational words…

Courage & Guts,
We Don't Lack,
Watch The Cougars Go
Back 2 Back 2 Back

In a “what-the?!” event during the pre-game warm up, Mark Wilkie managed to cop a footy directly on the finger which lead to an unfortunate trip straight to the hospital to fix his now dislocated finger. Still, the player kept their focus and warmed up with the game firmly in mind.

Before the first bounce, the club managed to once again secure the services of Melissa to belt out rousing additions of the Australian, US and Canadian national anthems. The crowd and players were brought to fever pitch, and to no-one’s surprise, with Happy losing seemingly his 10th coin toss in a row ….it was time for the game.

Quarter 1

From the start, it quickly became obvious that Seattle had done their homework on the Cougars with coach Donlen throwing the surprise move of lining up the dangerous Justin Chevlen at Full Forward. He also took full advantage of using Cougar Mugsy in the centre and the results were devastating. Before they knew it, the Cougars were down 4 goals to zip, with Chevlan claiming 3 of them. The Seattle boys had come to play.

Super Coach Grills reacted quickly making a number of key moves to stem the flow of goals and turn the game back to the Cougars favour. Throwing himself and the Handyman in the centre, the Cougars started to assert some control through the centre. Colin Special K kicked a magnificent running goal to post the Cougars first and Randy Dickin slotted another to get the Cougars back on target. Edgar, Chops and Happy were starting to send the ball long into the forward line. At one stage a forward thrust set up the Glamourboy to launch himself skywards for a crack at mark of the year. Unfortunately, like Utting a few weeks early (and despite the ohh’s and arhh’s from the crowd), he just couldn’t keep a hold of the pill as he headed back to earth. Still, the momentum remained and a nice Fists pass shortly after lead to Vargo slotting one through late in the quarter.

Still, Seattle remained strong and kept the flow of goals coming. At quarter time, it was a shell shocked Cougars who assembled for the quarter time break.

Q1 Cougars 3.1.19 to Seattle 8.2.50

Quarter 2

After some inspiration words from the SuperCoach, the Cougars headed out to the field determined to stem the onslaught. Within the first two minutes, the ball was sent long and a nice grab lead to the Glamour Boy slotting another for the Cougars. However, during the passage of play, Cougars dangerous ruckmen Fists Thornton suffered a leg injury reducing his leaping ability. The ever tactical SuperCoach immediately thrust the Glamourboy in the ruck; a move that paid off instantaneously. After a solid smack out of the ruck, Grills swooped on the ball, bombed it long and planted one on Fists chest. The Cougars had another goal. A minute later, Vargo won the tap, which was scooped up by Happy. Under pressure, Happy delivered a sublime handball back to the running Vargo who shrugged and tackle and snagged a booming 50m goal on the run!! The Cougars had suddenly slotted 3 in 3 minutes.

The mood was contagious amongst the players and with the crowd going berserk, the whole team was lifting. Seattle tried to get the ball back in their attacking zone, but the Cougars defence was turning up the heat. Terrier Horychun shut down the dangerous Chevlen, whilst Cam Mitchell, Hoad, Mark of Cain, Locks Paquin, Coops and The Guru were blanketing their opponents and throwing their bodies on any loose balls in the Seattle forward line.

Keeping his players fresh, Cougars were piling off the bench and getting straight in amongst it. Ice Block was thrust onto the wing and was proving very dangerous around the Cougars forward 50. With yet another miracle snap from Goal sneak Stratford and another goal from Vargo and Fists, the Cougars had HIT THE FRONT. It was time for now desperate Seattle to lift. In the end, they slotted two late majors to put their noses in front at half time.

Cougars 9.4.58 to Seattle 11.2.68

Quarter Three

It was time for the Premiership quarter. SuperCoach Grills called for all players to give all they had to give, and that they gave. Both teams would not give an inch, and the free flowing, goal scoring game of the first half turned into a war of attrition. The Glamourboy, Happy and Ice Block were having season best games across the centre as they tried to send the ball into attack. Wolverine Utting was sent to full forward and put his body on the line to try and put the ball on the ground for the Cougars rovers to swoop on. Morgs seemed to have shrugged off his knee injury troubles as he continued to fight hard for the ball in the back line. Coops as always was providing tremendous leadership in the back line as he swooped back time and again to prevent an easy Seattle scoring opportunity. His play was inspiration for his young Canadian charges as Cam, Robertson, The Rock and Paquin refused to give their opponents an easy time of it. Despite Freeman and Grills goals, the Cougars could just not get the better of Seattle. At 3-quarter time it was -

Q3 Cougars 11.4.70 to Seattle 13.2.80

Quarter 4

So it was onto the last. It’s fair to say both teams looked buggered, yet neither was willing to budge. The Cougars desperate to claw back for the win, Seattle desperate to hold on.

Each Seattle goal was matched with a Cougars one. Despite his soreness, Fists was proving a tough man to beat at Full Forward and slotted another one to add to those of Happy and Stu. Still, neither side could get a run on to seal the deal. The influence of two Rob’s kept things tight in the back line, whilst the Wiz, Palmer and Taylor put their hands up and their bodies in to show they weren’t giving up either and would help take the game to the wire. As always, Shiner was giving it everything to the end and last gamers Chops and McFarlane were not going out without contributing their last ounce of strength.

However, the siren just came to quick. A joyous Seattle celebrated as they deservingly had played a great game to win their first NWPAFL premiership.

Q4 Cougars 14.7.91 to Seattle 16.6.102

Goal Kickers –
Glamour Boy (4), Fists (3), SuperCoach (2), Happy (2), Goal sneak (1), Special K (1), Randy (1).

Vancouver Best from -
Glamour Boy, Happy, Punter Mitchell, Ice Block, Johnny Hoad, Coops, Special K, COBS.

Seattle Best: – Mugsy (…the bugger).

After match

The players remained on field for the presentation of the Premiership Cup. After a few choice words, Happy caused a stir (and made it clear who had voted for) when he all but ignored special guest Lord Mayor Larry Campbell to pass the trophy to Seattle captain Justin Chevlan. Much to the bemusement of the crowd, Larry was equal to the task and managed to snatch the trophy from Chris so he could deliver a superb thank-you to both teams, the crowd and the spectacle itself.

…and so it was a jubilant Seattle and a somber Cougars that headed back to the change room before heading up to the clubrooms for a couple of hours of post match bevies. An emotional Cougar’s coach Grills was proud of his charges knowing they had given it there all. COBS committed his name to legend when he pulled out a secret stash of two bubbers for the boys to drown their sorrows in, and it wasn’t long before the mood picked up again.

Even further after match

With the obligatory ice bath dished out to Cougars SuperCoach Grills (to which he thanked the boys and commented that it would be his last Ice-bath for quite some time), an increasingly jubilant Cougars headed off to Jeremiah’s for more and more post match bevies.

The night quickly turned into a superb warm up for the Post season footy trip which is DEFINITELY happening (see the website for all the details) and showed that despite not winning the cup, there is still a tremendous mateship and commradery amongst all Cougar players.

As the boys began to file out of Jeremiah’s after many a bevvie, the last word to the SuperCoach, who once again thanked the boys for a great season and stated that it would unfortunately be his last post game pissup for quite some time…

Thanks
As always, it takes a lot of people to put together such a magnificent game.

Thanks to –
• The Cougars committee for all their hard work throughout the year;
• Annalise and Dr.Khan for their Umpiring;
• All Cougar players who sacrificed playing time to help boundary/goal umpire;
• Slim for his tireless running;
• The boys for volunteering to play for Seattle;
• All the girls for their support and their Pie/Raffle selling; and
• to all the wives/girlfriends and supporters who made the trip to see a sensational Cougars victory.

2002 Season Summary (as used for B&F night)

2002-09-30T14:32:00.000-07:00

Cougars B&F Night Voting

Game 1 - Van 7.0.42 v Sea 5.14.44

In the season opener, Seattle’s inaccurate kicking keep the accurate but undermanned Cougars in the game until the dying seconds when they snatched a hard fought victory. Few will forget the loss of Full Forward Jason Stratford at the US border after he forgot his passport. Richo was inspirational across the middle whilst Coop played his usual ‘never say die attitude’ type game throughout the game. Cougars big man Vargo gathered possessions all over the ground whilst first gamer Morgan deChalin played inspired footy.

1 Vote – Morgan de Chalin
2 Votes – Mike Richardson
3 Votes – Tony Cooper

Game 2 - Van 8.6.54 v Sea 1.6.12

In the first game of the BC Cup tournament, the crowd came alive when the home team (and crowd favorites) the Cougars, came out for their first tussle. There was some concern that a few of the boys may have visited the pie man a few too many times before the big clash. However, with a record 30 players on hand, it was felt this could be covered.

It wasn’t long into the game before the Cougars started to assert their dominance. There was some speculation that the Cats were still bruising from their encounter with the Kangaroos, but the Cougars were just too fired up on this occasion. First gamer Greggy was dominating the ruck duels, which allowed Richo and Judda to control the centre. Brendan was going in as hard as usual, and Dougie kicked 4 goals and seemed to be slotting goals/points with every kick. In the end, the Cougars were just too strong for the tired Cats.

1 Vote – Brendan Bannan
2 Votes – Justin Kuedara
3 Votes – Greg Bell

Game 3 - Van 5.3.33 v Cal 6.6.42

In a similar match to their first game against Seattle, Calgary threw absolutely everything at their opponent. On this occasion it was the Cougars. Despite the Cougars having to go ‘two games in a row’, they were fired up to send Calgary packing home for an early exit. However, Calgary were having none of it, and in yet another extremely tight contest, they took it up to the Cougars for the full 60 minutes.

The backline of Coop (Tony) and Coop (Gary) tried their hardest to repel attack after attack, whilst Vargo bagged another 3 up forward but in the end Calgary was just too strong.

1 Vote – Tony Cooper
2 Votes – Tom O’Sullivan
3 Votes – Gary Cooper

Game 4 - Van 2.8.20 v Cal 2.0.12

Despite some aching muscles and a few hangovers from the previous night’s do at the Hop and Vine Bar, it was time for the Grand Final. Once again the facilities were in place to ensure a great spectacle for the fans and players alike.

In miserable conditions, the Grand Final was a slippery affair with the ball on the ground for much of the game. A number of the Cougars fired including Timmy, Simon Knee, Richo, Justin and Tony Cooper to keep the Cougars in control despite the low scoring affair. In the two single goals by Jase and Greg were enough as the Cougars snuck by to take the inaugural BC Cup.

No awards given. Team effort to win BC Cup.

Game 5 – Van 8.10.58 v Sea 8.5.53

On the second trip down to Seattle, yet another fiasco almost occurred at the border during the road trip. After a pit stop near the Border Dougie left the BC Cup on top of the Min-Van as it proceeded across to the US Boarder, a good few hundred metres away. It was only when the Boarder guards/officers gave as a quizzical glare, that tragedy was avoided.

The game in Seattle started badly for the Cougars who were hit with a 6 goal to nil burst in the first quarter by the Cats. The Cougars would not be denied however and fought back slowly but surely over the next 90 minutes of football.

Jeff Allen started to dominate and playing up the ground at CHF seemed to be marking everything in site. Richo, Big Tom and Judda continued to control the centreline and kept thrusting the ball forward.

The game was marred in the 3rd quarter with Super Coach Stu leaving the ground with blood streaming down his face after a head knock with a Seattle player. It did however spur the Cougars to an improbable yet unforgettable victory by 5 points.

1 Vote – Tom O’Sullivan
2 Votes – Justin Kuedara
3 Votes – Mike Richardson

Game 6 - Van 10.6.69 v Sea 10.6.66

With the Cougars home ground moved from Burnaby to the UBCG for this vital clash, the pre-game questions resolved around whether the change in venue would effect the Cougars perfect home ground record or not.

Despite blustery conditions and early suggestions that the ground was not quite big enough, this game turned into yet another thriller between the two clubs. Both the Cougars forward and back lines were on fire. First gamers – Paul (Full Back) and Pete (CHB) held the backline together and repelled attack after attack. Whilst Dougie put in his usual effort up forward bagging 4 goals. The game went down to the wire with Super Coach Stu Grills snapping two sensational goals in the last to ensure yet another narrow Cougars victory.

1 Vote – Stu Grills
2 Votes – Doug Vargo
3 Votes – Pete Taylor

Game 7 - Van 6.9.45 v Sea 16.6.102

In a much hyped game at the Thunderdome at UBC, the Cougars were fired up for another opportunity to continue their dominance against the Cats. However, Seattle had other ideas and came out blazing from the start. Seattle seemed to have winners everywhere and stunned the Cougars into submission.

Regular Cougars stars seemed to have an off day, and it was only the efforts of new boys Marty McGrath, Justin Long and Chris Delahunty that seemed to keep the Cougars going. Paul Jennings and Rob Edmonds were consistently solid from the backline and The Prez Timmy McGrath was trying his guts out in the centre. In the end Seattle handed out a trashing to the shocked Cougars.

1 Vote – Tim McGrath
2 Votes – Paul Jennings
3 Votes – Martin McGrath

Game 8 - Van 7.10.52 v Sea 4.8.32

With the memories of the Thunderdome still fresh in the Cougars minds, Super Coach Grills put the Cougars through a series of hard sessions leading up to the GF that had the boys in a frenzy by the time game day rolled around.

A sensational number of 28 players made the trek down and were just too pumped up to let this one go by. Within seconds of the first bounced Vargo had taken a sensational grab in the pocket and bagged the Cougars first. They were never headed from there.

Everyone was on their game, none more so than VC Tony Coop who was everywhere across the backline, supported by his partners in crime Pete Taylor, Paul Jennings, Rob Edmonds and Brendan and Morgs.

Chops McGrath, Shine Edgar, Col Hilton and Dave Taylor pushed the ball out of the centre as Greggy Bell dominated, whilst Justin Long, Deano, Mark George and Adam Dooley showed pace off the wings to set up the likes of Vargo who marked everything and Jase Stratford who roved a beautiful goal.

In the end, the Cougars were just too damn strong.

1 Vote – Greg Bell
2 Votes – Paul Jennings
3 Votes – Tony Cooper

Final Tally

7 votes – Coops
5 votes – Richo
4 votes – Judda
4 votes – Greggy Bell
4 votes – Paul Jennings
3 votes – Tom O’Sullivan
3 votes – Pete Taylor
3 votes – Gary Cooper
3 votes – Marty McGrath
2 votes – Doug Vargo
1 Vote – Timmy McGrath
1 Vote – Morgan deChalin
1 Vote – Brendan Bannan
1 Vote – Stu Grills

2002 Grand Final Report

2002-09-18T00:45:00.000-07:00

Cougars Back to Back Premier’s

Awesome, simply awesome. Those were the words a visibly choked up Stu Grills used to describe the Cougars magnificent Grand Final performance against Seattle…in Seattle on Saturday.

After a crushing 57-point thrashing handed out by Seattle at the Cougars last home game at Thunderbird Stadium, it was going to take an amazing turnaround by the Cougars to ensure the Grand Final didn’t go the same way.

In the weeks leading up to the Grand Final, Super Coach Grills had put the Cougars through some higher intensity training sessions with the goal of peaking for the Grand Final, and peak the Cougars did.

Pre-Game

The road trip started as always outside the Avis on Broadway at a sprightly 7.30 a.m. Coach Grills and Prez “Chops” McGrath were heard to say on more than one occasion – “I’m excited”. If it weren’t so bloody early, maybe some of the other players would have been as well. “Chops” McGrath provided some earlier amusement as people were waking up with his newly grown siddies, which were rather excessive, quoting them as “a good luck charm”.

As predicted, the Three Stooges – Adam Dooley, Mark George and Greggy Bell were the last to arrive (a good 30 minutes late). There arrival did however signal the beginning of the Cougars biggest ever Car Convoy down to Seattle. So at around 8.15 am they were off - 2 big buses, a minivan and 2 cars hit the road for the long drive south.

After the obligatory rest stops, the Cougars arrived to the familiar Seattle cow paddock that passes itself off as a football field. The Ground was in tremendous knick, with the large dust patches integrating nicely with the potholes…oh and odd bit of green grass. The sidelines did however look a treat, with both teams bringing large supporter bases who has set up marques, tents, chairs and flags in anticipation of a thrilling game.

With its biggest road team ever (28 players) the Cougars were pumped. Super Coach Grills looked like he was about to jump out of his pants as the game approached start time, and he was licking his lips when he saw the size of the bench that he would have for this game. As Skip Vargo headed out for the toss, Cougars Veteran Col Hilton reminded him that no Cougars Captain had ever lost a Grand Final. Stirring words considering this was only the 2nd GF ever.

…and so at 1.15 pm the 2nd ever North West Pacific AFL Grand Final began.

The Game

Right from the start, Super Coach Grills had Seattle guessing. In a shock move, Grills settled the much anticipated Full Forward debate by throwing Canadian Todd Little into the FF position and sticking Sratford in the Pocket and Vargo at CHF. The decision paid off early as within minutes Ruckman Greggy Bell bombed one long and Vargo took a superb “middle of the pack” mark and goaled to the give the Cougars the early lead. They were never behind for the entire game.

From the start to the finish, quality Cougars players who were sub-par at the Thunderdome lifted that extra notch which is what Grand Final football is all about. The backline, lead as always by Vice Captain Tony Cooper was unflappable, and would not let the Seattle forwards even get a sniff at the goals. The Centreline lifted enormously and McGrath/Taylor/Hilton and Edgar played out Super Coach Stu’s instructions to a tee by nullifying the effects of the dangerous Chevlin and other Cats centerline players from start to finish. The forward line converted after the rest of the team had done the hard yards in getting the ball long. Vargo’s kicking was as always erratic, but he still managed to snags a few majors and Stratford lifted for the GF and was rewarded with a magnificent roving goal.

However it’s not individuals who win a GF, it’s a team effort. Coops was inspiration as always across the back flank. If he wasn’t pinning his opponent or diving into packs, then he was repelling the ball forward time and time again. Shine Edgar proved as always that’s he’s a quality player and hard at the ball whether he’s scouting the centre or the forward line. Longy showed a heap of dash and a lot of class off the wing and sent many balls long into the forward line. Blocky was his namesake – a block down in the backline and played magnificently coming on and off the bench with Edmonds who played amazing football considering the guy had his fractured wrist in a cast only a few days before but was determined not to miss the GF.

Prez “Chops” McGrath played some of the hardest football you would ever want to see. Maybe his beloved Tigers should take a page out of Chop’s book if they want to be a genuine finals team themselves. Strats tirelessly scouted the packs all day and had a few snags at goal including a magnificent snap goal in the 2nd quarter. Pete Taylor played his usual solid game across the CHB line and gave little chances away to Cats man mountain Andrew Donlen. Dave Taylor lifted again in the centre and tackled hard all day to keep the Cats centeline purring quietly. Tony Joyce proved dangerous in the Cougars forwardline and added some much needed mongrel in there. Brad Gill and Evan Ozirny proved that they have come along in leaps and bounds since playing Aussie Rules for the first time only a few weeks ago. Canadians like them are the future of the Cougars in Vancouver and the way these two have picked up the game in such a short time is a fine example of where the club will go in the next few years.

Brendan and Morgs, two Canadians who have played since the start of the season were as always phenomenal in the backline. Both might have as well been wearing the same footy jumper as their Seattle opponents because they were always right on them when the ball dared stray in their direction.

Stooge 1 – big Greggy Bell made a much welcome return to the Cougars fold and played a telling factor in the outcome of the game with his constant domination of the ruck duels. Numerous of his tap-outs headed in the direction of Stooge 2 – Adam Dooley and Stooge 3 – Mark George who as always provided some class and finesse on their Wing and FF respectively.

Rhys and Chris Freeman put in very solid games and worked well around the forward flanks when it was needed most including combining for a great goal in the vital 3rd quarter. Big Tom O’Sullivan was as always a superb relief ruckman and backman when called into the fray by Super Coach Grills. Despite still nursing some minor effects of his mid season swollen knee, there was no way big Tommy would not step up to perform for the GF.

First gamer Deano quickly proved his freakish skills on the training track would be transferred into a game situation, and provided much zip and courage that was need in the Cougars mid field. Canadian Todd Little proved as well that despite being new to the game, he knows how to give it his all and that his skills are improving exponential with every game.

Skip Vargo led from the front all day. His amazing grabs in the packs or on the lead proved more than a handful for the Cats backline and lead to many Cougars goals including three for himself. Paul Jennings proved that age is no barrier, it’s heart that counts, and he proved he has a big one. For the second game in a row he was a standout at the last line of defense and was not going to let the Cats get their paws on the trophy. Iain Adams, yet another young Canadian gave it his all and reveled in the chance to play in a GF. Col Hilton was inspirational. He spent more time at the bottom of the packs than any other Cougar and was the epitome of a player who was determined to give 110% to win the match. Campo was as always a solid a player as he is solid around the midriff. Throughout the match he constantly bustled his way through packs and set up drives forward.

Last but not least was Super Coach Stu Grills. Whether it was his fire up attitude before the game, his inspirational words during the breaks in the game, his attacking play in the forward line when he came on, or his excitement after the game was won, he was the man on this Great Day in the Cougars short history.

Back to Back victories for the Cougars !!!

Game Summary

Q1 Cougars 2.4.16 to Seattle 1.1.7
Q2 Cougars 3.7.25 to Seattle 2.3.15
Q1 Cougars 6.8.44 to Seattle 2.5.17
Q1 Cougars 7.10.52 to Seattle 4.8.32

Vancouver Best

Tony Cooper (3), Paul Jennings (2), Greg Bell (1), Colin Hilton, Doug Vargo, Shine Edgar, Tim McGrath, Peter Taylor, Brendan Bannen (Best Non-Australian), Justin Long, Morgan DeChalain.

Thank You’s

Appropriately for the GF, it’s a big but deserving list.

Col and Kim for their “huge” banner the boys charged through before the game.
“Chops” McGrath for driving all the logistics of organising the buses and hotel rooms for the trip to Seattle.

Super Coach Stu for all the usual organisation and associated stuff he does week in week out to get the Cougars team on the field. Simply awesome Stu.

Jill Coops and Fiona Mitchell for their action photos.

Web Guru Edmonds and regular contributor Vargo for all their website work.
To the Seattle Players for giving us some great contests, not just in the GF but also throughout the year.

...and to all the wives/girlfriends and supporters who made the long trip down to see a sensational Cougars victory.

The After Match Report

A massive Grand Final victory is always going to lead to one thing…yep, just an absolute truckload of beer being drunk by the victorious team. So it wasn’t long after the Cougars walked off the pitch that they were headed to the Cats pub – The Irish Immigrant. On a magnificent Seattle Day, the Cougars joined in unison with their Seattle opponents on the pub’s sun drenched beer garden to polish off numerous pitchers of beer/wine and spirits.

As always between these two teams the commradery was a great sight to be hold, and much banter flowed too and fro between the two teams. Highlights include just about everyone being absolutely sloshed, including VC and BOG Tony Cooper who rarely drinks. “Chops” McGrath who was repeatedly asked if he could throw his big siddies on the Barbie. Rob Edmunds scrounging a lift home so he could avoid the early bus back to Vancouver and drink for another hour or so.

Then it was time for more after pub activities. The boys headed of to “The Red Elvis” bar in downtown Seattle. Surprising it wasn’t filled with Red Elvis’s, but was however very quickly filled with Cougars. The bar staff quickly spied the Trophy and were good enough to constantly keep the trophy full of free beer. Who knows if they would have been so keen to keep filling it up had they have known that one Cougar who reported as “being with the band” got his hand on a couple of free meals.

The boys were entertained by the band (including the surprising addition of 10 belly dancers into their act); Tom O’Sullivan’s dance floor antics that included sticking his tongue down the throat of one of the locals; and Campo and Vargo’s sideshow when they got themselves into a broom closet and proceeded to dress themselves in clothes, hats, metal clips and even a large rolled up power cord that they stumbled on. Thankfully the local security were equally amused with these antics and let the boys go.

There may have been an incident involving two high profile Cougars players that led to the hotel hallways being covered in Fire Extinguisher powder. However this is being denied by Cougars management (especially if anyone from the Seattle Travelodge is reading this article).