ELSAH, IL – After two weekends on the road in search of strong competition, the Principia Thunder Chickens were back in action at home against Saint Louis University in a Gateway Conference match last Saturday. It was an opportunity for the team to give some of the regular bench players a chance to start.
Regular captain, Damir Conci, returned to action after a few weeks on the sidelines with an injury and gave the team good direction with his strong communication.
Kudzai Chiwara dominated the first half with a powerful display in midfield. First, he ran onto a short pass from Mateo Ferreyra after a well-executed move from a short line out. He ran onto a similar ball minutes later, this time bumping off his direct opponent. On both occasions, he was able to round the full-back and score the try. Later in the first half and during the second half, Chiwara had the crowd on their feet by making bone-crushing hits.
In the pack, regular starters Emmanuel Atiko, Luigi Furlan and Francisco Alessio had strong games. Atiko was dominant in the scrum, Furlan jumped well in the line-out, and Alessio was dominant in the loose. Nick Ismirnioglou had his first start of the season at flanker and had a lively and productive game. Elvis Ajuoga scored his first try of the season and continues to improve.
In the backs, Dexter Mbwinja got his first start for the injured Damilola Odunuga. Mbwinja had a very confident showing and was able to get his team playing with good rhythm. Tobin Blair also made his ever first start as a rugby player and handled himself very well. Mateo Ferreyra and Andrew Matoka had very strong games in the backline. Matoka was Principia's leading scorer on the day, finishing with four tries.
It was a very positive showing for the Thunder Chickens, who came away victorious 85-7. The team played with good tempo and skill, while limiting the opponents to one scoring opportunity. The win helped Principia move up to #2 in this week's National Collegiate Rugby Division 2 coaches' poll.
Up Next: Principia will head down to St. Louis on Saturday to face another conference opponent in Washington University at 11:00 am. The game will take place at WashU's South Campus Field at 6501 Clayton Road.
