Albany Sirens Defeat the Village Lions

On a beautiful Saturday morning, the Albany Sirens ventured down state to take on the Village Lions at their home turf on Randall's Island. It wasn't your average 80 minute game, instead it was three 30 minute periods with rotating substitutions. Jo Ward Kos scored the first try and Beth Fairall with the conversion kick started the Sirens with a 7-0 lead within the first seven minutes of play.  However, the Village Lions answered back scoring two more times to end the first period. The Lions used that fuel entering the second period to score in the first four minutes and again at the 20 minute mark. Fortunately, Shannon Wallace and the pack POWERD UP and scored twice for the Sirens! The 30 minute mark was fast approaching, the referee whistled for the last play of the game, the Sirens pack received the kickoff. After many picks and rucks, inching their way up the pitch, sucking the defense into their every move, Willow Eyres, brilliantly called for a back play. The back line, fearlessly lead by Abigail Brigham, handled the ball with such finesse and speed, creating holes and cutting angles so sharply, it almost poked the defense's eyes out! Finally, the ball makes its way out to Beth Fairall. Unfortunately for the Village Lions, they hadn't heard of Beth and didn't realize you can't give her room to run. Beth tied the score at the end of the second period, 22-22. Albany capitalized on their opponent's mistakes and penalties to score two more times. The first was by Abby Brigham with the assist by Kristen Bonomo and the second by Lauren "Skeeter" Sirkin. In a last ditch effort, the Village Lions scored once more, but once again came up short, ending the game, 32-27.

It was a very fast paced game and the Sirens excelled at playing together and keeping composure. We were able to conquer rucks and not submit to the frustrated Lions and their penalties, well most of the time. There were many rotations of players and positions. Everyone stepped up to move forward and perform well as a team!