A 13-5 victory over the Vernon Jackals May 24 improved the Penticton Harlequins rugby club record to 3-0 in the Okanagan Rugby Union.
Head coach Ken Sommerfeldt said regardless of what happens in their fourth game, this Saturday at 1 p.m. at McNicoll Park, they will remain atop the league. Sommerfeldt added it’s their goal to win the ORU then play for the Saratoga Cup in July.
“Our ultimate goal is to win the Saratoga Cup again,” said Sommerfeldt.
Against the Jackals, captain Dave Bellomo said the Harlequins came out strong but failed to pile up points as they managed just one try. Bellomo also said the Jackals dominated possession at the end of the first half but the Harlequins defence did its job in protecting the lead. In the second half, the Harlequins were able to extend their lead with a penalty kick by Danny Hatch before Vernon scored their lone try. The Harlequins responded one more score receiving offense from Ben Gorrod and Tesimoni Felemi.
“Vernon was much improved with a few key players present who were absent in the first game,” said Bellomo, adding that the Harlequins have also improved.
For their next game, Bellomo said the team wants to make the communication strong.
One thing Bellomo is noticing about the group is their attitude.
“Our team is full of laughs and good times right now,” he said. “A super-positive group.”
Following this weekend, the Harlequins next action at home will be their Sunfest tournament June 13-15. Unlike in previous years where the Harlequins didn’t put in teams due to numbers and focusing on hosting the tournament, they will play.
“We think we have a good enough team we can actually not be doormats,” said Sommerfeldt.