While no coach likes to look ahead to their next opponent, the Langley Rams were able to work on some specific things as they ready themselves for a big showdown this weekend, and also next month’s post-season.
“We were able to execute a lot of the things we have been working on,” said Rams coach Ted Kirby.
Kirby was referring to his team’s 54-7 win over the visiting Valley Huskers at McLeod Athletic Park on Saturday night.
The win improved the Rams to 6-2 and they sit in a three-way tie atop the B.C. Football Conference standings alongside the V.I. (Vancouver Island) Raiders and the Okanagan Sun with two games remaining.
The Rams host the Raiders this Saturday afternoon at McLeod Athletic Park.
Against the Huskers, the outcome was never in doubt as Langley held the under-manned Huskers to 56 yards of offence. The team’s lone touchdown came courtesy of a blocked punt which Dylan Boykowich scooped up and ran 22 yards for the score.
The Rams defence had five interceptions with Joe Patko and Jeff Paras picking off two apiece and Nate De Rappard-Scott with the other. Patko also returned one of his picks for a touchdown.
Luke Andrews had Langley’s lone quarterback sack, while Michael Spencer had a fumble recovery.
Quarterback Jahlani Gilbert-Knorren threw for three touchdowns and rushed for two scores.
Dan English, Jordan Traversy and Spensor Farbatuk caught one touchdown pass apiece.
The team’s other touchdown came along the ground from Kyle Albertini. The running back finished with 118 yards on 13 carries.
The rest of the points came off the boot of Steve Thomas, who made both of his field goals and was a perfect six-for-six on convert attempts.
Kirby credited the Valley team for their fight during the game, especially considering how short of player they were.
“To be honest, I might be more impressed with the Huskers’ effort than our own,” he said. “Those guys showed a lot of heart. They stood up and battled.”
As for the upcoming against the Raiders, the Rams will look to avenge a 41-27 loss.
“We have to play smart football,” Kirby said about limiting penalties. “We can’t get into a shootout with them. We want to keep their offence off the field.”