The Bury team travelled out to Italy on Friday the 16th and returning home on Sunday 18th November. Viareggio is a pretty coastal town not far from Pisa on the western coast of Italy. The match was played in front of around 500 spectators. For some of the team this was a first.

The match started at a frantic pace with the Italian side dominating with the ball and leaving Bury’s young inexperienced side shell shocked. A time out and some adjustments on the rink slowly started to give bury some ball possession. Half Time score 8-0

At Half time more adjustments were made to counter the constant pressure from the Italians. This lead to Bury starting the half with possession and also numerous chances to score. Which in fact led to 2 bury goals. The first from a set move free hit and a second from the penalty spot. The Italians were relentless with the pressure on us making in 2-2 in the first 15 mins of the second half. The game continued with constant pressure from the Italians but was counter on numerous times with Bury scoring 2 more goals. The game ended 15-4 to Viareggio.

The game was a great experience for Bury young in experienced side who left the rink to a standing ovation from the Italian fans. As they fought hard to the end and never gave up in defence or attack. Well worth the extra costs it takes to enter Europe.

Darrel Pearce
Bury RHC Coach