Tigers win RMFL season opener

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Published on Tuesday, September 15, 2015

By Eoin Devereux

The Neepawa Press

The Neepawa Tigers’ running game has helped them to open up the 2015 Rural Manitoba Football League season on a winning note.

Parker Guy registered 57 yards rushing and added a pair of touchdowns to give the Tigers a 20-6 win over the East Parkland Warriors on Thursday, Sept 10th. Will Rainka and Alex Woloski helped on the ground as well, contributing 75 and 67 yards respectively, with Rainka notching a seven yard rushing touchdown. In total, seven Neepawa players combined for 279 yards on the ground, on the way to the win. In the air, Dylan Oshanyk went 4-7 in the quarterback position for 48 yards. Tanner Mann added one completion for 20 yards.

Tigers coach Dave Clark said he’s pleased with how well they were able to move the ball on the ground, but stressed that this offence will feature a balanced attack, as the season progresses.

Neepawa’s defence, which was a great strength in 2014, appears to be something that will be an anchor for the team once again this season. The Tigers totalled 31 tackles, two quarterback sacks, one interception and a fumble recovery. Dillan Neufeld proved to be the backbone of the defence, garnering six of the team’s tackles and both sacks. Will Birnie added four tackles, an interception and fumble recovery.

Clark said that the defence and special teams provided them with great opportunities throughout the game.

“Our defence was able to stay aggressive all night, but was still making smart decision out on the field and our special teams as well, were able to get us great field position all game. They both were able to take the pressure off of our offence and were a huge part of securing the win,” said Clark.

The Neepawa Tigers will play their home opener on Friday, Sept. 18th against the Virden Golden Bears.