The Abbotsford Rugby Club was shut out 56-0 by Meraloma in Premier League action Saturday at Exhibition field.

There were a bunch of injuries with five key guys out of the game, but coach Jason Young wasn't making any excuses.

"It was just one of those games that didn't go right. We didn't capitalize on scoring opportunities," he said.

"It was a step back but more of a reality check. We're playing against the top teams in the country."

Abbotsford kept the score close through the first half, but things fell apart for the young club after that.

The average age of Abby's players is 21-22, several years younger and less experienced than the Meraloma squad.

"It's a good thing. We can use it as a positive and build on it," added Young.

"The guys need to work a bit harder and take things more serious. It's about playing at the top level all the time."

With the loss, Abbotsford's record drops to 0-4. On Saturday they host the Burnaby Lake Rugby Club at 2:45 p.m. at Exhibition field.

JKonda-Witte@abbotsfordtimes.com