In the Central Interior Rugby Union, the Prince George Gnats are expecting to get the roughest ride from the Williams Lake Rustlers. If Sunday's season-opening game in Williams Lake was any indication, that prediction looks more like fact.
In an entertaining contest, the Rustlers escaped with a 20-19 victory when they scored a try in the final 30 seconds.
"That ended it," said Derrick Przysieny of the Gnats. "It was well-fought."
The Gnats had a 10-5 lead at the break but had trouble containing the hard-charging Rustlers in the second half. The host team scored three tries in the half, including the late winner.
Troy McKenzie, a veteran standoff for the Gnats, had all the points for his side -- three tries and two converts.
The teams have combined to win the past two CIRU championships, the Rustlers in 2011 and the Gnats in 2010. The Gnats also rumbled to the provincial title that year.
With only the league champ advancing to provincials, every point is crucial. Last season, the clubs tied at the top of the standings but the Rustlers nabbed the B.C. berth based on points for and against.
This season, the Gnats will be led by battle-tested guys like McKenzie, James Hope, Steve Pereira and Przysieny. Youngsters like Tom Saar and scrum half Josh Swain will also be key to any success the Gnats enjoy.
"I think we'll do pretty well," said the 32-year-old Przysieny, a second row player. "We have some new young guys and we have lots of old veterans returning so I think we'll fare pretty well."
Other teams in the league are Prince Rupert, Terrace and Vernon.
The next game action for the Gnats is Saturday and Sunday in Vernon. The following weekend, they'll be in Prince Rupert for the annual Sea Fest tournament.
