AFL (Alberta): Defending champion Wolfpack handle the Bucs’ (video)

On June 9th, the defending AFL champion, the Calgary Wolfpack, traveled north to Red Deer to take on the Central Alberta Buccaneers. Great Chief Park was wet and slick, making it difficult for both teams to get sure-footing. Sporadic torrents of rain soaked both the players and the spectators.

Both teams started the game strong defensively. As a result, neither team’s offense was able to move the ball with much success. The Buc defense shut down an early drive when LB Todd Lewis sacked the Wolfpack QB, Daryl Leason. On the next play, LB Curtis Dreger picked off a pass from the Wolfpack’s backup QB to end any hopes of a Wolfpack score.

As an already injury-plagued team, the Buccaneers suffered another huge loss when safety Kenton Poelzer was forced to leave the game due to injury. A week prior, in Lloydminster, Poelzer tied the AFL’s record for highest number of tackles in a single game. Several other losses of key veteran players left the Buccaneers scrambling to fill positions in the second quarter.

The Wolfpack took advantage of the Bucs’ injury woes and began to gain yards. Calgary’s precision passes and well-executed routes showed how they had claimed 13 AFL championships, including 2011. Refusing to punt, even when on third and long situations, showed the confidence the Wolfpack had in their offense. The tired Buccaneer defense couldn’t handle the passing game and began to give up touchdowns. The Buccaneer offense was able to move the ball, but was still unable to cross the Wolfpack goal line.

Despite being outscored heavily in the second quarter, the Bucs refused to give up and came out swinging after halftime. Adjustments were made in order to combat the powerhouse Wolfpack. Rookie RB Jordan Hare pounded his way up field for several first downs and put the Bucs into field goal position. The kick went wide but the Bucs managed to pin the ball deep in Wolfpack territory. The Bucs defense showed new signs of life; their coverage was much tighter and individual efforts had improved. However, the Wolfpack was still able to move the ball and scored several touchdowns in the second half. Regardless of a huge lead over the Bucs, the Wolfpack still tried for two-point conversion gambles in order to run their score even higher.

The final score was 64-0.

The Bucs are taking this loss in stride; instead of being discouraged, the Buccaneers are motivated to work hard in preparation for their next game against the Calgary Gators. The Bucs hope to extend their three game win-streak against the Gators when the two teams clash June 16th in Calgary at Shouldice Park.

For updates about games and Buc info, fans should be sure to check out the Buccaneer website www.cabucs.com, join the Bucs on Facebook and follow on Twitter @CABucs.