FUS Falls to WVU

FUS Falls to WVU 

In their inaugural game of the fall 2008 season, the Franciscan University Rugby team fell short in a 24-14 loss to West Virginia University. While both sides used every effort in this struggle, West Virginia's veteran lineup and experience got the better of Franciscan's untested rookies, many of whom had never played before.

While the speed and vision of the Mountaineers' backs slashed the Barons' defense, the strength and intensity in the rucks and scrums put forth by Franciscan's forwards was overwhelming. The Barons stole six of West Virginia's scrum puts (not including 2 wheels) and lost only 4 of their puts, totaling 15 wins out of 30 puts.

The Barons first try came from a penalty when David Fatula was tripped, followed by a Matt Smeybe penalty kick. The second try from Captain Ben Webber for a total of 14 points.

During the game the Barons suffered two major injuries.

The Baron's next scheduled game is for Saturday September 13, at 1:00 pm away at Slippery Rock University. Doubtless it will be another hard fought battle, as both schools will field highly competitive teams.