Rolla, MO. -- On Saturday, Principia and the University of Missouri S&T faced off for two rugby matches. Principia defeated Missouri S&T 28-0 in 7s, and fell in the 15s match 32-17.
In 7s, Principia came out strong and scored on their second possession, swinging the ball wide for their wing to run around S&T's defensive line. On the next possession, S&T had their biggest offensive threat, moving the ball all the way down to Principia's goal line by supporting the ball carrier well and keeping the ball tight on multiple phases. However, a penalty for not releasing the ball after Principia had a strong counter-ruck allowed Principia to kick for touch and get out of trouble. Displaying patience on offense, Principia went on to score another try in in the first half to go up 14-0, and two subsequent tries in the second half to finish the game 28-0.
After a 15 minute rest period, the 15s match kicked off. After trading possession several times, S&T's strong aggressive running allowed them to score their first try just 6 minutes into the match. The teams proceeded to trade tries over the first two of the three twenty minute periods, going into the third 20 minutes tied 17-17. Inexperience on Principia's side of the ball led to sloppy defensive work and S&T scored three tries to finish out the game 32-17. Playing in their first game for Principia was Michael Upton (prop) and George Agai (wing).
Principia competes at home next Saturday in an in-house scrimmage at 9:00 am, come out and watch the team play!
