The Howe Sound Sounders kicked off the 2012 season by pitching a shutout against the Argyle Secondary Pipers on Saturday (Sept. 8).
The Sounders won the exhibition game 22-0, and the story was the team’s dominant defensive performance. Howe Sound held the Pipers to only 22 yards of offense en route to the win.
“We went into this game with a very young and inexperienced team,” Howe Sound head coach Jim Errington wrote in an email. “What nobody expected was the effort and determination our players demonstrated on the field. If we can teach them to develop into a team and they continue to play with that determination and desire, it should be a very interesting year.”
Howe Sound picked up 200 yards on the ground and 38 yards in the air, with Swo-wo Gabriel, Taylor Priebe and Tyson Thompson scoring touchdowns. Thompson’s score was a pick-six, with Rolan Mendoza and Rick Wilson also grabbing interceptions. Cam Dare led the way on the ground with 123 yards rushing, while Gabriel rushed for 36. Priebe was the top receiver with 28 yards in the air. Gabriel also led the way with five tackles and recovered a fumble.
The players of the game, as selected by the coaching staff, were Dare on offence and Mendoza on defence.
The Sounders have this weekend off and then travel to Earl Marriott Secondary to take on the Mariners in another exhibition game on Sept. 21. The regular season will begin on Sept. 29 when the Frank Hurt Hornets come to town.
The club is still looking for volunteers and coaches to help out with various aspects of the team. Those interested in helping the squad out can do so by contacting Errington at jerrington@shaw.ca.
