Brad Delaney puts a kick through for the Bears in Toronto

Bears scare the Wolfpack

Toronto Wolfpack 54 Coventry Bears 12

Before this game, Toronto Wolfpack, a team of full time professional star players assembled from across the globe had beaten second placed Barrow 70-2 and had thrashed fourth placed Doncaster 6-82.

With their big crowds, and the whole of a continent behind them, they are top of League 1 and are a Super League side in waiting.

What chance would the Bears part-time players stand against this opposition after a flight across the Atlantic?

It seemed the trip had the effect of bonding the Bears together and they were soon making things difficult for their tough opponents who were just 8-0 in the lead when midway through the first half Jamahl Hunte chased a kick from Chris Barratt and carried it over the line to bring the score up to 8-4.

Jamahl Hunte finishing a fantastic try for the Bears in the corner

Toronto needed to step up a gear to score two more tries, but Coventry were not beaten yet as Brad Delaney scored a penalty and the half ended at 26-6.

Spurred on by a 7,000 crowd, with a sprinkling of loyal Coventry fans who had made the trip over, the second half resumed.

Fui fui Moi Moi gets to grips with James Geurtjens

Toronto’s FuiFui Moi Moi powered over the line twice as the score was extended. But the Bears resilience and creativity were by no means extinguished as they pushed hard and were rewarded with a second try from Brad Delaney.

The final score was 54-12, but the Coventry Bears had made a real game of it, providing stiffer opposition than anything the Wolfpack have come across so far in the league.

Praise was heaped on the Bearsafter the game, from fans and opponents alike, and Social Media was buzzing with good wishes after the Bears had won over the home fans.

The Bears earned a lot of respect from the Wolfpack fans

Bears CEO Alan Robinson commented;

‘the boys did themselves, the club and Coventry, proud today. I couldn’t be more pleased. We have some great memories and new friends after today’

Meanwhile, Toronto’s Head Coach Paul Rowley also praised the Bears;

‘Coventry came with a really good attitude. They were very positive and enjoyed the experience. And that translated to their performance on the field.’

Miss the match you can watch it now here:

The full game is now on YouTube just CLICK HERE

So, what next for the Bears and their amazing team spirit?

This Sunday, June 25th kick off 3pm, Workington Town at the Butts Park Arena. Adults £12, concessions £10, youths £5, kids free.