Written by RUGBYMag.com News Release    Thursday, 02 February 2012 01:56    PDF Print Write e-mail
Arizona Edges Aztecs
Colleges - College DI-A

The University of Arizona Rugby program swept a three match series on the road for the second time this season this past weekend.

In December, Arizona defeated Arizona State's varsity, JV, and freshmen teams. Today in sunny San Diego, the program notched a second hat trick.

In game one, the freshmen team racked up 47 points on seven tries to defeat the Aztecs 47-12. In game three, the Junior Varsity overwhelmed SDSU 66-7. In those two matches, the 2011 recruiting class put their skills on display.

In the main event, Arizona's varsity won a come from behind 26-21 over the Aztecs. All three Arizona teams are 2-0 on the season.

In the varsity tilt, the Cats scored first after the defense blocked an Aztec punt and Matt Lundahl carried across for the 'Cats. Ten minutes later, The Aztec's flanker Jake Polikoff returned an Arizona kick for try between the posts to draw the teams even at 7.

With just a minute remaining in the half, Arizona fullback Shane Carter scored in the corner after an Aztec penalty gave Arizona a lineout deep in SDSU territory.

The score was 12-7 Arizona at the break.

Arizona scored first in the second half when Jack Arnold dotted down after another Aztec penalty gave Arizona another red zone lineout.

A minute later, the Aztec forwards persevered after a four minute Arizona goal line stand. The kick from just inside the touch line was good and the Aztecs were within five at 19-14.

The Aztecs claimed their first lead of the day with just fifteen mniutes to go. After Arizona let a deep kick into their end of the field, SDSU center Frank Ramos broke the Arizona line between the posts. With the conversion, SDSU was up 21-19.

With just five to go, Arizona's backs, with the direction of captain and flyhalf Trent Fischer, made it to within three meters of the line. Flanker Nic Svob picked and went over to score. With Fischer's third conversion, Arizona claimed the final lead 26-21.

"We had a pretty good day," remarked Arizona Head Coach Dave Sitton. "We used three freshman in the varsity game in a match that needed a great bench performance. Obviously, we are pleased with the performance of all of our players.  But make no mistake, there is plenty of room for improvement."