A Fighting Start to the Season in Riga: First Baltic Rugby Championship Match
The first Baltic Rugby Championship match of the season was played in Riga against Miesnieki/Ķekava.
6/15/20261 min read
On June 13 in Riga, Vilnius Rugby Academy began its campaign in the Baltic Rugby Championship. In the opening match of the competition, our team faced Latvian side Miesnieki/Ķekava and showcased great determination, character, and a strong desire to compete.
We traveled to the match without a full squad available. Several players were sidelined due to injuries, while others were unavailable for different reasons. Despite these challenges, the players who took the field gave everything they had and demonstrated from the very first whistle that they were ready to compete against one of Latvia’s strongest rugby clubs.
The first half was highly successful for Vilnius Rugby Academy. Disciplined play, solid defense, and well-executed attacking opportunities allowed us to build a comfortable lead. After the opening 40 minutes, we were ahead 21–7, controlling the pace and flow of the game.
In the second half, the home side managed to raise the intensity and gradually reduce the deficit. The match remained competitive until the very end, but this time the result went in favor of the Latvian team. The final whistle confirmed a 33–28 victory for Miesnieki/Ķekava.
Although the result was not the one we were hoping for, the performance highlighted many positive aspects that we can build on throughout the season. We are confident that the return of our injured players will strengthen the squad and allow us to move forward with greater depth and capability in the matches ahead.
Following the match, Leonas Vasaris Sirutas was named Vilnius Rugby Academy’s Player of the Match. His energy, commitment, and contribution on both sides of the ball made him one of the standout performers for our team.
We would like to thank Miesnieki/Ķekava for a hard-fought and competitive match, and our players for their dedication, character, and effort throughout the game.
Our next challenge awaits on June 21 at 2:00 PM at the Vingis Park Rugby Stadium in Vilnius, where we will host Latvian rugby club Fēnikss.
We invite all supporters, friends, and members of the rugby community to come and support the team. Your support means a great deal to us and gives the players extra motivation to fight for every meter and every point on the field. We look forward to seeing you at Vingis Park Rugby Stadium!
Photos: Zigismunds Zālmanis
