FUS Rugby Victorious in 59-14 game vs. Clarion University

FUS Rugby Victorious in 59-14 game vs. Clarion University

STEUBENVILLE, OH - The Franciscan University of Steubenville rugby team played a game for the ages Saturday. While both teams put their best efforts on the field, superior strength, speed, and skill brought about victory 59-14 for the Barons.

The crowd that gathered for the spectacle was not disappointed. In the opening minutes of the game the Clarion backline exploited a hole for an early try. Regrouping, the Baron Ruggers would not allow another try until late in the second half.

Intensity was the name of the game for Franciscan, and each member of the team executed beautifully. While the Baron forwards punched forward, popping the ball back and forth, the backline spread the field and pierced the Clarion defensive line over and over again.

Seven of the 15 Baron Ruggers scored, some with two or three tries a piece! The blinding speed of David Fatula provided 3 tries (with fancy footwork to match), Mike Stirelli scored two tries, and Bob Morris had two tries. Frank Knoell, Bob Hogan, Paul Lewis, and Mike Braisie each had a try; While Theo smith booted two through the uprights. The relentless pounding of the forwards and the adept ball movement of the backline proved the Franciscan University of Steubenville Rugby team to be both competent and dangerous.

Team co-captain Ben Webber said "Its good to see the whole team come together to pull off a big win, we are finally starting to get in stride with each other and play like a team; Play Franciscan rugby with dignity and passion."

The Franciscan University of Steubenville Rugby team now has a 1-3 record. Their next game is at home on October 11, 2008 at 1:00 pm. They will line up against the University of Pittsburgh rugby team, which has a 3-0 record in ARU (Allegheny Rugby Union) games.