JASON PARKS

EDITOR

The PECI Senior Panthers Girls Rugby team will have a date with undefeated Bayside today in a contest that could decide the 2023 Bay of Quinte Athletics regular season title.

The Panthers have put together a solid campaign thus far and were undefeated themselves heading into Thursday’s road match up against the St. Paul Falcons. The Panthers were ultimately tripped up in a 36-28 shootout against the Birds to suffer their first setback of the year.

PECI was due to take on 4-1 Centennial at home on Monday before their final regular season game at Bayside Secondary today.

PECI’s last win was a gutty 12-7 victory over Nicholson Oct. 10. The Panthers played a physical and back-and-forth game with the Crusaders. Excellent play came from JR call-ups Kate Cowan and Bree Kleinsteuber, while Makena Prettie, Amy Iamundo and Drew Spencer led the Panthers defence. Tries were scored by Caydie Hall-Lucas and Brooke Spencer. Ms. Drew Spencer added the convert.

In Junior action, PECI moved their record to 1-1-1 with a 5-5 tie against the Crusaders. PECI skipper Doug Holt noted the efforts of Abby Speirs, Kaylee Baverstock, Elora Heard and Mallory Wood. Emily Wager had the Panther try.