The stage was set for an intense semi-final showdown as the second-seeded Comox Valley Kickers faced off against the third-seeded Kelowna Crows at Capilano Rugby Club.
Both teams had earned their spots near the top of the standings through eight months of grit and determination, but with a berth in the finals on the line, it was the Kickers who rose to the occasion, delivering a 47-14 victory.
Meeting on neutral ground, both teams came into the matchup hungry for a shot at the championship, but it was the Kickers who ultimately seized control of the game with their trademark blend of speed and relentless pressure. Though the match was hard-hitting from the opening whistle, the Kickers鈥� ability to move the ball quickly across the field proved too much for the Crows to handle.
The Stigant sisters, Sienna and Shayla, both playing in the centres, each crossed the try line twice, while Fullback Cali McKay matched their efforts with two of her own. Winger Kimberly Tran and Hooker Natalie Nguyen also added a try apiece, showcasing the team's depth and versatility. McKay capped off her strong performance with two successful conversions and a penalty kick to keep momentum firmly in the Kickers' favor.
Despite the scoreline, the match was not without adversity for the Kickers. Late in the first half and continuing into the second half, they were forced to play down a player after receiving a yellow card, which also resulted in a penalty try awarded to the Crows. The 10-minute stretch tested the Kickers defensive structure, but the team remained composed, using smart kicks to manage territory and force turnovers.
"Our speed and ball movement made the difference," said Head Coach JB Nikkel. "Even when we were down a player, the team stuck to the game plan and trusted each other."
The Crows battled fiercely throughout the game and added another converted try, but the Kickers鈥� defense otherwise held firm, refusing to let Kelowna claw their way back into the contest. Players and supporters alike celebrated after the final whistle, but there was a clear sense of unfinished business. The team now shifts its focus to the final, where they will vie for the championship they have been chasing all season.
鈥淲e're excited, but we know the job鈥檚 not done,鈥� said team captain Dara DeMarce after the game. 鈥淭his group is special 鈥� we鈥檝e put in so much work together, and we believe in each other. We鈥檙e ready for one more big game.鈥�
With this win, the Comox Valley Kickers will face off against the Nanaimo Hornets in the Women鈥檚 Division 2 Championship Final this Saturday, May 3, at Abbotsford Exhibition Park, with kickoff set for 11:15 a.m. on Field 2.
The finals will be a highly anticipated rematch, as the two teams split their regular season meetings 1-1, with the tie-breaker winner taking home the championship trophy. For more information, please visit: .
