WPL Match Report by JL “Trie” Triemstra: Valkyries 22 New York 39 – [VIDEO]

View the complete 2011 WPL Schedule and Results here.

by JL “Trie” Triemstra

Eagan, MN – The second round of WPL would not get off to a good start for the Valkyries. Within seconds of kickoff, NY’s McGee would get a clear run to the try zone practically untouched. With the conversion kick by Ruggeiro, NY got a very early 7 point led. Not long after, Van Saarloos touched one in and McGee had another. With one more conversion by Ruggeiro, NY tacked up a solid 19-0 lead. But before the half was over, Valkyries woke up and got themselves on the board with a try by Tabor. Conversion kick missed left the score 19-5 going into half.

Second half started a bit nicer for the Valkyries, but NY still got ticks on the board with one from Brethel and two more from McGee. All three went unconverted keeping the NY lead at 34-5. With less then 20 minutes to go in the half, the Valkyries seems to shake awake one more time. Tracy Call got a try in, but it went unconverted leaving the Valks trailing 34-10. Only minutes later, NY’s Rosenthal got one more try. Again, unconverted, NY had what seemed like a sure lead with a 39-10 lead. But did I mention the Valkyries were not done playing yet? 5 minutes after Rosenthal put in NY’s last try for the game, Valkyries rookie and rising star, Tayo Mafe powered her way in for a try. Another 5 minutes later, Valkyries Captain, Libby Berg, got another try on the board for the Valkyries. Adding the conversation by DeBruzzi at the final minute, the Valkyries rallied to close the gap to 39-22.

Overall, New York’s tenacity and steadfast game plan gave them the edge from the start. Although the Valkyries were dealt another loss, the second half rally helped to raise moral for the exasperated players. Together, both teams enjoyed the much needed camaraderie off the pitch following the game. Socializing together once again proves that good music and a little mischief leads to the development of friendships beyond the game. The next game for New York will be against the Amazons at Randall Island. The Valks take on San Diego in Eagan, MN.

Game Photos

Valkyries 22 New York 39

Match Video

View the complete 2011 WPL Schedule and Results here.