SPRING 2004

Saturday, March 27, 2004 - Eugene 12 - Bend 11
Eugene, Oregon - by Jon Sowins & Bruce Brown

On a beautiful, sunny Saturday afternoon, the Eugene Rugby Football Club defeated the Bend Roughriders 12-11. In the past Eugene and Bend have played numerous times for the Pacific Northwest Rugby Football Union Division III title.  However, due to Eugene's tie with Budd Bay Saturday's match was all for pride on the Eugene side.

The game started well for Eugene from the kick off.  Eugene possessed the ball in Bend's red zone, but were unable to score a Try.  The Roughriders were able to clear the ball out and capitalized on a Eugene penalty call. The next play resulted in Eugene's Outside Center Justin Burgin cutting through numerous defenders and scoring a try for Eugene with Eugene Prop Jayme Meadows successfully kicking the conversion kick giving Eugene the lead.

The offensive attack of Eugene's play was fast and consistent using well placed kicks against Bend's back three players.  The next score from Eugene came from a kick by Eugene's Fly Half Jason O'Connor who broke the gain line and carried three Bend defenders into the try zone, with the conversion not being made; the score was 12-3 with Bend kicking a Penalty Kick just before half time.

The second half was played sloppy on both sides having penalties called on both teams. The Roughriders were able to convert 1 of 3 penalties in the second half to make the score 12-6 Eugene.

Two major possessions by Eugene in the Red Zone gave the opportunity for Eugene to score, but the defense of Bend held the attacking offense from scoring. With less than 10 minutes remaining in the match, the ball was passed to Bend's flyhalf Mike Abbott within Bend's 22.  Eugene Flanker Mike Arnold was awarded a Yellow Card for laying into a Bend lock who didn't have the ball and without wrapping while in pursuit of Bend flyhalf Mike Abbott, who was attempting a kick.  As a result of the Yellow Card, Arnold was sent off and the Roughrider's were awarded a Penalty Kick.  The kick landed in touch five meters from the Eugene try zone.

After the lineout and a missed tackle, a Bend forward was successful in scoring a try making the game 12-11.   With their conversion kick unsuccessful. Eugene was able to play one man short the last 10 minutes and had a very valiant team effort the whole game leaving the pitch with a win.

The Man of the Match for Eugene and Carpenter Award went to hard-hitting center Darren Polamalu for laying the wood in all of his tackles.

3/6/04 (Seattle) - Eugene 49 - Seattle Quake 12

The first half was dominated by Eugene with excellent breakaway runs by their backs. Final Score: Eugene 49 - Seattle Quake 12
SCORING: 8 tries, 1 penality, 3 conversions
Dustin McCloskey, 3 Tries
Jayme Meadows
Tyler Gray
Jason Waterman
James Alford
Justin "Dr. J" Vaughn
Jon Sowins 1/2 Penalties; 3/8 conversions

2/28/04 (Olympia, WA) - Eugene 17 - Budd Bay 17

There is no love lost between these two clubs. It was a very intense, hard-hitting game. There was just a little too much chatter amongst the players. There was back and forth scoring throughout the match. Eugene was down by a try in the second half. In injury time at about the 82nd minute, they won a scrum deep in their own territory. They spun it all the way out to their looping flyhalf who proceeded to gallop 80 meters for the tying score under the post. Unfortunately, they did not convert.
SCORING
Justin Burgin - 1 Try
Eric Pakulak- 1 Try
Jason O'Connor - Try
John Sowins - 1/3 Conversions

FALL 2003

October 4, 2003 - Eugene 91, Seattle Quake 5
Eugene in Remains in First Place (2-0)

(Eugene, Ore.) - On October 4, 2003, Eugene saw a much improved Seattle Quake side.  Their pack was larger than the Eugene pack.  Additionally, their backline was more organized under the leadership of a much improved flyhalf.  They were tackling harder and rucking more consistently as well. 
 
The match started off with inside-center Justin “Dr. J” Vaughn breaking four tackles in a twenty-yard breakaway in Quake territory.  A quick pass in contact allowed Justin Burgin to seal the deal for a try, which was converted by Jon Sowins.  Eugene 7, Quake 0. 

The next try occurred after a Quake lineout on their own 5-meter line.  A tip by 8-man Matty Springer stole the lineout.  A quick pass by scrumhalf Shane Card was followed by a dummy to the inside center and a pass to Burgin who ran in for the try.  Sowin’s conversion was good.  Eugene 14, Quake 0.  Burgin’s next try was unconverted.  Eugene 19, Quake 0.
 
The next try was the result of a great series of mauls.  The breakaway occurred and Burgin went to Springer and then to Dr. J who scored the try, which Sowins converted.  Eugene 21, Quake 0.  Springer’s first try of the day was assisted by some great playmaking by flyhalf Dave Lent and again converted by Sowins.  Eugene 28, Quake 0. 
 
A few minutes later Dr. J had a brilliant 20-meter run up the middle and put a big stiff arm on a Quake back; he then passed it to JQ Schaller who scored the try 10 meters from the left touchline (unconverted).  Eugene 33, Quake 0.
 
Playmaker Lent scored the next try from his own kick which he recovered for the unconverted try.  Eugene 35, Quake 0.
 
The next try occurred with no time left on the clock.  Dr. J had another big run up the middle and kicked it deep to the Quake flyhalf who bobbled it, ultimately dropping it while feeling the pressure by Burgin.  Card recovered it and touched it down for the try (no conversion).  40-0 at half.
 
While the first half saw nine tries by Eugene, the second half saw only six plus a well-earned Quake try, their first ever against Eugene.  Some memorable tries in the second half included Harland Allen’s first ever men’s side try.  Allen is an alumnus of the Corvallis High School rugby team.  Prop Jayme Meadows got the pack’s second try of the day from great support after a fake kick by Lent. 
 
The Quake’s try occurred after a questionable penalty was called on Eugene’s 40 and the resulting five-meter lineout.  The Quake’s big-man barreled in for the score.  Lent earned the next two Eugene tries with some good dummies and cuts back inside.  Springer’s second try of the day was reminiscent of his three tries from kickoff returns in Eugene’s 116-0 victory over the Quake in their charter season.  This time Springer made a 70-meter return breaking several tackles along the way.  Springer next closed out the day with Eugene’s fifteenth try and Sowins made his seventh conversion, leaving the final score Eugene 91, Quake 5.
 
The last time Eugene scored fifteen tries in a match was March 22, 2003, in an 87-7 victory at home over Peninsula (Bremerton, Wash.). Eugene is now 27-14 overall since the fall of 2000 (.659) and 16-4 in league play (.800).  Eugene has averaged 33 points scored and only 15 points against in that same time frame (1347 PF, 623 PA).  Eugene’s quest for a berth at the Regional playoffs continues.

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September 27, 2003 - Eugene 53, Peninsula 10
Eugene in First Place

(Bremerton, Wash.) - Peninsula mounted a commendable attack on Eugene’s typically stellar offense in Eugene’s 53-10 victory.  However, Eugene was its own worse adversary as their play was plagued by poor ball handling and untimely passing decisions.  By the end of the day, Eugene had logged almost 20 knock-ons and forward passes and at least 10 penalties.  Despite rusty individual play, Eugene dominated in virtually every phase of the game. 
 
There were several notable performances by young newcomers to the club.  Dave Johnson and Harland Allen both played with Corvallis High School last year.  Johnson had a powerful day at hooker and Allen played a smart game at fullback, making beautiful kick return choices all day long.  Ian Harrison, who played high school rugby in Seattle, had a stellar day at lock, scoring his first try with a men’s club - one of Eugene’s 9 tries. 
 
8-man Matty Springer scored twice.  The first was off a penalty five meters out, reminiscent of Refrigerator Perry breaking through the lines - but with less grace and mass.  His second was off of a stolen lineout when he ran up the sideline 15 meters for the try.
 
Bill Terrill scored when an opposing back threw a bad pass that went wide.  Terrill picked it off the ground and ran for about 10 meters.  He then passed to Justin Burgin inside who passed it back to Terrill outside.  It was a foot race to the try zone where Terrill beat out their fullback and flanker for the try. 

Prop Steve Haley got his try when with a ten-meter barreling run up the gut, running over three defensive players in the process (including star flyhalf Ollie at the try line).
 
Flanker Mike Arnold scored when Bill Terrill had a breakaway. He came into traffic at the 22 when he made the short pass.  Arnold then ran through the defensive players until he was bounced aside at the five.  He maintained his balance rolling to the left and then dove in for the try while being tackled by two of the opposing backs. 
 
Justin Burgin had two tries in the match, one on clean up in the loose on the try line and one from 20 meters out.  Jayme Meadows also finished the day with a try.
 
Jon Sowins scored 8 points going 4/7 on conversion attempts.  He made two incredible shots close to the touch lines. 

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September 20, 2003 - Eugene Takes 1st Place at Eugene 10's Tournament
Seattle Mudhens Win Women's Championship

(Eugene) - Eugene RFC hosted its annual Eugene Celebration Rugby 10’s Tournament on Saturday, September 20, 2003, at the UO’s South Bank field.  Eugene’s A-side took the men’s tournament trophy with a 15-14 come-from-behind win over ORSU’s (Portland) A-side.  The Emerald City Mudhens (Seattle) took home their second consecutive championship for the women.

The format of the tournament and the skill of the participants allowed for several exciting matches with close scores. Last year’s champion Bend won a tough first-round match in overtime over Eastside with only five points (1 try in overtime) scored all game.  Bend then faced its rival and tournament hosts Eugene.  Eugene squeaked by with the 30-28 victory.

The men’s championship match saw ORSU come out hard and fast, putting the first try and conversion on the board.  Eugene came back after the kick off with Bill Terrill intercepting a pass in the backline.  He ran it in untouched for the try.  This seemed to epitomize the rest of the match.  ORSU rambled hard in the loose and dominated the scrums.  However, Eugene seemed to capitalize on every ORSU mistake and turn it into a fast-running try.

At the awards ceremony, the hosts gave the traditional cup along with individual medals to the victors.  The ceremony was sponsored by the Wild Duck Brewery and Alaskan Brewery with Wild Duck’s Glens Best Bitter and Alaskan Pale Ale.

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September 7, 2003 - Eugene Takes 2nd Place at Cascade Classic

(Eugene) - Eugene traveled to Bend for the Cascade Classic Rugby Tournament where the winner takes home a $500 prize.  Eugene, one of two Division III teams in the tournament, was in Pool A with ORSU (D1 from Portland) and the Portland Pigs (D2).  Pool B consisted of Bend (D3), Tri-Cities (Wash.), Snake River (D2 from Idaho), and the Colorado B.E.A.R.S. (Denver; a tournament side of former Super League players).
 
Eugene 40 – ORSU 12
Eugene opened the tournament against the much favored ORSU Jesters.  Eugene came out hard and fast putting up two quick tries.  Matty Springer pulled a hat trick with three tries off of good explosive runs.  Justin Burgin had a long 30 meter run, passing the ball to Bill Terrill who left the ORSU winger in the dust for the try.  Justin Burgin had another long run for a try.  After a deep kickoff by winger Joey Latteri, Mike Arnold stole the ball on the bounce for a 25-meter run for the try.  Latteri finished the day five of six on conversations.  ORSU had 2 tries and a conversion.  This was Eugene’s first victory over a Division 1 opponent in the modern era.
 
Matty Springer - 3 tries
Mike Arnold - 1 try
Bill Terrill - 1 try
Justin Burgin - 1 try
Webb Ellis - 1 try
Joey Latteri - 5/6 conversions
 
Eugene 24 – Portland 5
After a one hour break, Eugene took the field against a much bigger Portland Pigs side.  Tom Gordon started off the game scoring a try from a kick to the corner.  Justin Burgin and flyhalf Dave Lent both scored tries off of explosive backline plays.  Forward Webb Ellis also scored after a rambling set of forward plays in the loose.  Joey Latteri had two conversions. 
 
Tom Gordon - 1 try
Justin Burgin - 1 try
Dave Lent - 1 try
Webb Ellis - 1 try
Joey Latteri - 2/3 conversions
 
These two victories put Eugene in first place in its pool.  Pool B saw same hard play by all teams.  Snake River defeated Tri-Cities and Colorado.  Bend defeated Tri-Cities and Snake River.  Colorado defeated Tri-Cities.  This pitted Bend against Colorado in the final Pool B game.  At the end of a hot Saturday, Colorado’s backline dominated Bend with many long runs.  Due to the high numbers put up by Colorado, it advanced to the finals against Eugene Sunday morning.
 
Tournament Finals: Eugene 14 – Colorado B.E.A.R.S 32
The underdog Eugene again played its hard rambling style or rugby.  While the much larger pack dominated Eugene in the scrums, Eugene’s pack destroyed Colorado in the mauls, at one time driving a rolling maul 30 meters down the pitch.  Colorado’s spectacular backline was controlled by Eugene much better than opponents had the previous day with quality tackling and communication in the backline along with the assistance of Eugene’s back three. 
 
Colorado was awarded the first try as a questionable penalty try.  A pop kick to the corner of the try zone resulted in fullback Bill Terrill breaking up the score with a sliding kick, knocking the ball out the back.  However, he was ruled playing the man, not the ball.
 
Bill Terrill struck back with a try of his own.  Justin Burgin continued his dominance in the open with another backline try.  Joey Latteri was good with both conversions.  Eugene surprised the spectators and its opponents playing with a lot of heart. 
 
Bill Terrill - 1 try
Justin Burgin - 1 try
Joey Latteri – 2/2 conversions
 
Eugene finished the weekend with a hard fought second place. If Sunday’s match is any indication, Eugene should have a solid season.  This is one of the most solid sides Eugene has seen in years.  However, recruitment must be the priority.

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August 23, 2003 - 30th Anniversary Celebration and Alumni Game:
Eugene 25 - Old Boys 17

(Eugene) - Eugene hosted former players from 1973 to the present day in a spectacular day of rugby. Many of the Old Boys haven't played in years and many will never play again. Teh website will soon publish many photographs of the players, young and old. More details and complete roster to come... 

Eugene: 25 points
Steve Haley - 1 try
Chris Hoffman - 1 try
Jayme Meadows - 1 try
Sean Peters - 1 try
Mike Arnold - 1 try

Eugene Old Boys: 17 points
Dick Dunn -1 try
Bill Terrill - 1 try
Ross Shepard - 1 conversion
Shawn Waterman - 1 try

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SUMMER 2003

July 19, 2003 - Eugene Hosts 7's Matches 

(Eugene) - On Saturday, July 19, 2003, Eugene Rugby Club and Thurston High School Rugby Club hosted sevens matches at Thurston High School. 

Match 1: Eugene 29 - Bend 5: Eugene scored fast and frequently, defeating archrival Bend.
Tries: Mike Arnold 2, Sean Peters 2, Shane Card 1
Conversions: Joey Latteri 4/5

Match 2: South Eugene/Thurston 29 - Bend 7

Match 3: Eugene 24 - Thurston/South Eugene 12: The high school boys showed some promise against a much stronger Eugene side.
Tries:  Mike Arnold 2, Sean Peters, Jon Sowins
Conversions: Jon Sowins 2/4,
For Thurston/SEHS:
Tries -  Jake Grange
Conversions - Joey Latteri 1/2

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June 14, 2003 - Eugene Rugby Advances to Semi-finals in Tatunka 7's Tourney  

(Olympia, WA) - Eugene went 2-2 at the annual Tatunka 7's Rugby Tournament, hosted by Budd Bay Rugby Club.  On June 14, 2003, the following played for Eugene: Mike Arnold (1 try); Joey Latteri (1 penalty, 3/4 conversions), former SEHS player; Jon Sowins (1/2 conversions); Andrew Sorg (1 try), former SEHS player; Trevor Leung of SEHS;  Mike Wight (3 tries), former Vancouver Sharks H.S. player; and Joey Amaral (1 try). 

Only Mike Arnold and Joey Amaral are not rookies; Sowins of Eugene and Latteri, Sorg, Leung and Wight of SEHS are all first-year players and had an impressive showing against much more experienced opponents.  Sevens rugby is a fast-paced game played on a full-sized field with less than 1/2 the normal players. This makes for lots of space and lots of running and tackling.

Match #1: Bye

Match #2 - Quarter-finals: Eugene 24 - Special Forces (Fort Lewis, WA) 5
Try (Conversions)
Joey Amaral (Joey Latteri - good)
Mike Wight  (Joey Latteri - good)
Andrew Sorg (Jon Sowins - good)
Penalty goal
Joey Latteri
Summary: Youth, speed, good tackling and passing were the keys to victory. Also, Joey Latteri, a U-19 All-Star, made
his Penalty goal from 40+ meters, surprising the opposition.

Match #3 Semi-finals: Eugene 12 - UW 34
Try (Conversions)
Mike Wight  (Joey Latteri - good)
Mike Wight  (Joey Latteri - no good)
Summary: ERFC came out strong. Score was tied at half but UW dominated the second half. UW's scrum half dominated play; UW scored 4 tries in the half to win.
 
Match #4 Consolation Semi-finals: Eugene 5 - Special Forces 14
Try (Conversions)
Mike Arnold (Jon Sowins - no good from the sideline)
Summary: Mike Arnold played hard scoring late in the first half off of a lineout by running over the Special Forces winger.  ERFC lead 5-0 at half, but Special Forces made key substitutions at the half and had very fresh legs. Special Forces scored two quick tries and forced ERFC to play from behind. ERFC had some great play from Andrew Sorg, Jon Sowins and Mike Arnold late. The game ended as Andrew Sorg was just short of scoring a try. 

Eugene will be traveling to other sevens tournaments throughout the summer.  All interested parties should come to touch practice on Tuesdays/Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. at Tugman Park (36th/Hilyard).

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May 3, 2003 - Eugene Kicks-off Summer 7's 3-1

(Corvallis, Ore.) On June 7, 2003, 10 ERFC members made the trip to Corvallis to kickoff summer sevens.  Those in attendance included, Justin Burgin (4 tries, 0/1 conversions), Matty Springer (3 tries), Jon Sowins (4/8 conversions), Garth Hiaasen (1 try), Craig Stankus (1 try), Shane Card, TC Hales, Mark Baldwin, Stefan Alexander*, and Chris Hoffman*. 

Match #1: Eugene 17 - Corvallis 0
Try (Conversions)
Garth Hiaasen (Justin Burgin – no good)
Matty Springer (Jon Sowins – no good)
Justin Burgin (Jon Sowins – good)
Summary: Good tackling and smart passing were key. Justin Burgin and Matty Springer had long try-scoring runs.
 
Match #2: Eugene 24 - Corvallis/OSU (mixed side) 7
Try (Conversions)
Justin Burgin (Jon Sowins – good)
Justin Burgin (Jon Sowins – no good)
Matty Springer (Jon Sowins – no good)
Matty Springer (Jon Sowins – good)
Summary: Shane Card played well as ERFC dominated all match and only gave up a try late.
 
Match #3: Eugene 12 - Corvallis/OSU 10
Try (Conversions)
Justin Burgin (Jon Sowins – no good)
Craig Stankus (Jon Sowins – good)
Summary: ERFC came back from 2 tries late in second half.
 
Match #4: Eugene 0 - OSU Old Boy's 40
Try (Conversions)
None
Summary: Eugene was tired and it was hot. They simply had more old boy tricks.

Eugene will be traveling to other sevens tournaments throughout the summer.  All interested parties should visit www.EugeneRugby.com or come to touch practice on Tuesdays/Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. at Tugman Park (36th/Hilyard).

(* Also played with either Corvallis or OSU Old Boys.)

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SPRING 2003

June 7, 2003 - Eugene Defeats Young Oregon State 17-0

(Corvallis, Ore.) Eugene traveled to Corvallis to play a young Oregon State side in the season’s final 15s match.  A more experienced Eugene side dominated most aspects of the game.  Eugene Rugby Club won its first match sporting a new set of Green/Blue/and Black jerseys with a final score of Eugene 17 – Oregon State University 0.  The club has retired the blue-white-black hoops and will auction them off at the Spring Awards Banquet.

Scoring by Eugene:
Stefan Alexander – 1 try
Chris Huffman – 1 try, 1 conversion
Craig “Quaker” Young – 1 try

A spirited B-side match saw several Corvallis High School players on the pitch and most of the Eugene men pulling double duty. 

Eugene summer touch has been postponed to protect the marshy fields.  The club will travel to several Sevens tournaments this summer and will begin the 2003-2004 season fall with its Annual 10s Tournament celebrating 30 years of Eugene Rugby!

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April 12, 2003 - Eugene Loses to Hard-Running Portland Pigs 12-45

(Portland, Ore.) After a tough loss to Bend the week before, Eugene traveled to Portland to play the Pigs. The Bend match took its toll on Eugene, as several players were still out of commission and several more were playing at far less than 100%. Nonetheless, Eugene made the trip intent on giving the Pigs a good run before they travel to Boise to take on Snake River for a slot at the Division II Regionals.

Eugene started off the match very flat and seemed to lack their typical early-game flair. As the match wore on, the visitors had many bright spots--some good, aggressive rucking and nice running. However, it was mostly upstaged by some non-committal defense of the turnstile/matador variety. The defense seemed to have a particularly difficult time with a rather large islander center. Scrumhalf Shane Card did an especially good job dragging him down from behind on several occasions when his teammates weren't tackling. Inside-center Jayme Meadows proved to a formidable tackler, driving back the offense with each blow.

Eugene's first try came late in the first half after blasting their way into the red zone. Two phases of crashes found scrumhalf Card buried deep beneath the pile. From the back of a ruck, flanker Mike Arnold fed Joe Dierickx, visiting lock from Snake River RFC (Boise). Dierickx made contact with two Portland defenders at the goal line and banged his way in for the try just right of the uprights. The conversion was no good.

Eugene's only other try of the match came in the second half after a string of good offense by Eugene on their half of the pitch. Near Eugene's own 40, Card fed Arnold a pass off the back of a ruck. Arnold broke through the line and made it to the Portland 35 when the Portland fullback and winger came within striking distance. He put his foot to the ball for a pop kick into space. The ball bounced once, and, as luck would have it, it found its way back into Arnold's hands for a short dash for the try. The conversion was made by Card.

Good luck to the Pigs as they battle it out for a playoff berth this weekend in Boise. Fun is always found on the pitch with our friends from the Pigs. Flanker Mike Arnold was named Eugene's man of the match.

Scoring:
- Joe Dierickx (Boise) - 1 try (5 pts.)
- Mike Arnold (Eugene) - 1 try (5 pts.)
- Shane Card (Corvallis) - 1/1 conversions (2 pts.)

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April 5, 2003 - Eugene Suffers First Division Loss to Bend 0-17
Bend to represent NW at Regionals

(Bend, Ore.) Eugene lost another tough match to Bend with the final score of 0-17. Although Eugene played well, dominated the scrums, and played very disciplined rugby, it wasn't enough to overcome Bend's speed and excellent tackling.  After several easier matches in which Eugene was able to slice through defenses and break tackles, this match was very frustrating. ERFC was just unable to break through to the goal line despite a huge advantage in possession and field position.

Bend was able to make a few long breaks down the field early in the match and put up a 12-0 lead at halftime. One try was scored after their hooker had been sin-binned for a flagrant, not to mention offside, raking with the boots of Eugene flanker Sean Peters' head. 

Eugene clearly dominated the second half of play except for the most important aspect, the score.  ERFC was parked inside Bend's 22 meter line for at least 20 minutes of the second half.  Stefan Alexander did get the ball over the line and onto the ground but the ref called it no try because he didn't see the grounding.  ERFC was also able to get the ball over the line on at least two other occasions but was unable to ground the ball.  Jayme Meadows had a nice pickup at the back of a ruck and dove over for a try. However, the ball had just been knocked on by a Eugene player so another 5-meter scrum was called. 

All credit goes to Bend for somehow keeping Eugene out of the try zone despite being dominated at numerous 5-meter scrums (losing a number of their own put-ins), being solidly driven at Eugene's lineouts, and standing up to charge after charge from Eugene. 

The last play of the match saw an exciting run down the touchline by Chris Hoffman who chip kicked the ball ahead and was just unable to reach the ball before it went over the dead ball line. That play pretty much summed up the entire game: tries were just out of Eugene's reach. 

Although it was a disappointing outcome, no one let their teammates down. The effort from ERFC was outstanding. The commitment was first rate. But the finishing touch was just missing. Flyhalf Justin Burgin (Lowell) was named man of the match for doing his typical hard hitting, hard running rugby.

Congratulations to Bend; they were the better team on Saturday and deserved to win. This was the first time that Eugene has been shutout in a league match since records began to be kept in the Fall of 2000.

Bend, who was defeated by Eugene in the fall 33-21, will represent the Pacific Northwest at the Pacific Coast Regionals in Arizona. Eugene plays the Portland Pigs this weekend.

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March 29, 2003 - Eugene Defeats Budd Bay 67-7

(Eugene, Ore.) Eugene defeated league opponent Budd Bay 67-7 by scoring 11 tries and 6/11 conversions. 

• Justin Burgin (Lowell) 3 Tries
• Chris Hoffman (Corvallis) 2T, 4/7 Conversations
• Stefan Alexander (Corvallis) 1T 
• James Alford (UO grad student) 1T
• Mike Arnold (Eugene attorney) 1T
• Dave Bell (captain) (Eugene lab tech) 1T 
• Shane Card (Corvallis father of two) 1T
• Sean Peters (Eugene bartender) 1T
• Phil Kelly (Eugene) 2/4 C 

Eugene came out pretty flat and was surprised by Budd Bay's early-match vigor.  Budd Bay's game plan was pretty simple if not very effective. They ran their forwards right and left off the side of the rucks, not much more than an arm length to the side. They did it over and over, just running their forwards and crashing back with the backs. Eugene met them and met them, usually driving them back. However, Budd Bay was persistent and hitting very hard, wearing down the Eugene defense.

Budd Bay had a couple of breakaway runs off of stolen rucks. They scored their try on defense off of a gift pass from Eugene, but they didn't really generate much offense on their own.  Matty Springer (Eugene social worker) and Justin Burgin gave great chase on their fullback's 55-meter breakaway to keep him out of the try zone for what would have been their 2nd try.

Offensively Eugene had a huge advantage with their speed, but Budd Bay wore Eugene down a little in the beginning. Eugene's set piece play went pretty well. Scrums were solid against a bigger team.

Both scrumhalf Shane Card and winger James Alford scored tries with smart pick-ups from the backs of rucks. Each saw the hole and ran through. Alford's try (his second of his career) saw him blowing past two defenders. Sean Peters' try was the result of equally good field vision off the back of a set piece that ended with a 40-meter run into the try zone. Peters showed explosive speed. Mike Arnold's try came late in the first half when scrumhalf Card fed him the ball off the back of a ruck at the 35-meter line. A stiff arm to a defender left Arnold to make a move around the fullback. However, finesse in the open didn't make up for speed, as the Budd Bay winger caught him from behind at about the five-meter line. Arnold fell just shy of the goal line, reaching forward upon noticing the field position for the outstretched try. Both of Chris Hoffman's tries illustrated that power and speed can equal 30- to 50-meter tries.

Card had what would have been his second try of the match when he made contact at the goal line. His momentum plus a push from behind planted him firmly in for the try. However, by the time the referee got in range, the smart Budd Bay back may have slipped his hands under the ball, which was ruled "held up" and a five-meter scrum was awarded. Off the next scrum, the scrumhalf fed the flyhalf who was flattened by the simultaneous blows of flanker Stefan Alexander's left shoulder and outside center Mike Arnold's right shoulder.

Hooker Mike Peters (Corvallis) was named man of the match. He ran the ball up field, secured the ball numerous times, communicated well with teammates, hit the jumpers in the lineouts, and made many tackles on Budd Bay's very large forwards running off of the rucks.

Eugene plays archrival Bend this weekend. The winner advances to regionals in Phoenix, Arizona.

Spring 2003 Statistics
League: 4-0 League Record (Points for & Against: 312-14 or 22:1) (Avg. PPG: 78-4)
Overall: 5-1 Overall Record (Points: 346-62 or 6:1)

Since Fall 2000: (14-3 League Record) (22-11 Overall Record) (Points For & Against: 1096-497 or 2:1) (Avg. PPG: 33-15)

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March 22, 2003 - Eugene Defeats Peninsula 87-7

(Eugene, Ore.) This past Saturday Eugene Rugby dispatched Peninsula 87-7.  Eugene played fairly well, moving the ball at will, only really getting held up while trying to maul.  The tries came in a variety of manners: long runs through the defense, the ball going quickly through several hands to take advantage of overlaps, powerful runs by the forwards, chasing kicks, and scores off of set pieces.   

ERFC's defense was overall very solid but Eugene was scored on by ERFC alum Kevin Graham, who was in town from Seattle.  He took the ball from about 5 meters out and powered over for the score.  Justin Burgin made another showcase for tackle of the season, blasting the Peninsula ball carrier with such force that he shot back like out of a cannon--truly marvelous.   

Many thanks go out to Bruce Brown who agreed to ref since the scheduled referee was unable to attend. Bruce also reffed the morning high school match between Thurston and South Eugene.   

Man of the match went to a deserving but not unanimous Darren Polamalu.  Many played very well but Darren played just a little bit better than the rest.

Eugene scored 15 tries and made 6 of 15 conversions:

• Justin Burgin 2T, 2/5 C 
• Phil Kelly 4/10 C 
• Darren Polamalu 3T 
• Stefan Alexander 3T 
• Matt Springer 2T
• Eric Pakulak 1T 
• Dave Bell (captain) 1T 
• Dan Tichy 1T 
• Garth Hiaasen 1T 
• Ben Figard 1T

ERFC has two more matches left to win in order to capture the PNRFU crown and travel to the Pacific Coast playoffs in Phoenix in April.  Next Saturday, March 29th, ERFC takes on league rival Budd Bay in Eugene at an as yet determined location (most likely kicking off at 1pm).

Spring 2003 Statistics:

• League: 3-0 League Record (Points for & Against: 245-7 or 35:1) (Avg. PPG: 82-2)
• Overall: 4-1 Overall Record (Points: 279-55 or 5:1)

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March 15, 2003 - Eugene Defeats Seattle Quake 91-0

(Eugene, Ore.) On March 15, 2003, Eugene Rugby took on the overmatched Seattle Quake this past weekend and ran away with the 91-0 victory.  Eugene was too fast, more aggressive and much more organized than the Quake.  However, Seattle was greatly improved from last season.  They were much more aggressive in the rucks and made some tackles.  At the beginning of the game, they were competitive in the scrums.  Most likely they could have kept the score down if they would have kicked to touch on penalties instead of continually running the ball and knocking it on in the tackle. 

For the most part Eugene stuck to their best style of play: fast break, run-and-gun rugby, as the backs ran in 11 of the 15 tries.  Eugene was very aggressive on defense, regularly hitting the Quake ball carrier hard and driving them back and/or causing a knock on.  Darren Polamalu had an especially big tackle in the first half, leaving his opposite crumpled up in a ball for about a minute. 

Since neither team was kicking the ball after penalties, there were very few lineouts, all of which were won by Eugene. 

Chris Hoffman was named Man of the Match with his 4 tries and 7 conversions (34 points). Other scorers were:

• Justin Burgin (flyhalf) (LCC student), 3 tries (15 pts)
• Mike Arnold, (flanker) 2 tries (10 pts)
• Darren Polamalu (center) (UO student), 2 tries
• Landon Stroebel (winger/rookie) (LCC student), 1 try (1 point)
• Shane Card (scrumhalf) (Corvallis), 1 try
• Ben Figard (prop) (Corvallis), 1 try
• Eric Pakulak (lock) (UO grad student), 1 try
• Phil Kelly (flyhalf), conversion (2 pts)

The A-side match was followed by an abbreviated B-side match.  The team in the ERFC jerseys came out winners with 4 tries.  South Eugene High School senior winger Tyler Grey showed excellent speed in scoring 2 very nice tries. The future looks bright for Eugene/Springfield-area rugby. 

Pacific NW D-III Standings
1st     Eugene 6-0
2nd    Bend 5-1
3rd    Budd Bay (Olympia) 3-3
4th    Seattle Quake 1-4
5th    Peninsula (Bremerton, Wash.) 0-6

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March 8, 2003 - Eugene Defeated by Tough Div. I Foe
Eugene 5 - ORSU 36

(Portland, Ore.) – On Saturday, March 8, 2003, Eugene traveled to Portland to take on the Division I ORSU Jesters. This was the best side ORSU has put out against Eugene in the last 2 years and far and away the best they have played against Eugene.  ORSU demonstrated that they are a good, solid Division I team who last weekend traveled to Seattle and put up 39 points in the first half against another Div I team.  ORSU has already qualified for the D-I Regionals.

In Saturday's match, Eugene started flat but went knocking on the door to ORSU's try-zone on several occasions in the first half. Throughout the day Eugene did some good things and had it rolling in their favor. However, the high points would often end with Eugene turning over the ball in a tackle or scrum.

Although ORSU dominated in the scrum Eugene stabilized things in the second half. ORSU was knocking on Eugene's door for many minutes in the second half and were kept out. There is no way you can see a better tackle than the one fullback Justin Burgin (Lowell, Ore.) made at the goal line to keep them out by inches. He stopped the ORSU back dead in his tracks as he dove in for the try.

The final score was Eugene 0 - ORSU 36. Eugene's lone try was scored by flyhalf Chris Hoffman (Corvallis, Ore.). Shane Card was named Eugene's Man of the Match.

Eugene traveled to Portland with 22 players. After a physically demanding A-side match, took on the fresh legs of ORSU's second side. Ross Shepard captained the B-side match at 8-man. Shepard founded ERFC 30 years ago in 1973 and co-founded ORSU a year later in 1974. B-side results: Eugene B's 0 - ORSU B's 25.

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March 1, 2003 - Eugene Defeats Peninsula 67-0

(Bremerton, WA) – On Saturday, March 1, 2003, Eugene dominated Peninsula in unseasonably clear weather in Bremerton, Washington, on the Olympic Peninsula.  The play was clean and well done during the first half, where Eugene scored most of their points in the 67-0 win.  The second half was sloppier on both sides, but Eugene was able to prevent any effort to score on Peninsula’s part.  This is Eugene's highest point spread against Peninsula since a 68-0 victory September 22, 2001, and this is Eugene's 6th shutout since the fall of 2000.

A memorable try was scored by Justin Burgin after Matty Springer’s breakaway run and pop kick into the try-zone; Justin Burgin outran the opposition and touched it down for the try.  Another try was recorded by Mike Arnold after receiving a pass from scrum-half, Shane Card, who passed off as he took the final hit, leaving a clear run for Mike to score on.  Chuck Young, a recent addition to the team, made a fantastic run along the sideline, only to trip up at the end; he managed to pass the ball to JQ Schaller to finish the run for yet another try.   

Justin Burgin was also on fire with his kicking this weekend, managing 7/10 on conversion kicks and 1/1 on penalty kicks, scoring 17 points on kicking alone.

The following players scored two tries each: Mike Arnold, Sean Peters, and JQ Schaller.  Single try-scorers included Matty Springer, Justin Burgin, TC Hales, Shane Card, and Darren Polamalu.

The B-side match was cut short due to an injury of a Peninsula player.  The B-side won 17-0.  Jayme Meadows scored 2 tries and Eric Pakulak scored one.  First-side injuries for Eugene included winger Steve Strickland with a dislocated finger. 

After the match, Eugene coach Sean Peters asked for both teams to take a moment of silence to reflect on all of the Peninsula players that have been deployed or are being deployed overseas.  Peninsula Rugby consists mainly of Navy players.  Eugene player Bruce Brown, also Navy, could be deployed soon as well.  Eugene RFC wishes them all the best.  

Saturday's victory put Eugene one step closer to a slot at the Pacific Coast Regionals in Phoenix, Arizona, in April.  If Eugene qualifies, this will be their first time attending since 1994.    Eugene is now 4-0 against league opponents this season (fall/spring).  Since the fall of 2000, Eugene is 20-10 overall, 12-3 in their league, and has outscored the opposition 933-454.   

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February 8, 2003 - Eugene Defeats Portland Pigs

(Monroe, Oregon) – Eugene's Spring 2003 season got off to a great start with a 29-12 preseason win against the Portland Pigs at Monroe High School on 2/8/03.  This is the first Eugene victory over the Pigs in many years.

With great weather on a great pitch, play got underway.  Eugene played well over the entire match.  Portland played hard, but Eugene had some fantastic individual and team effort that overcame the opposition.   Tries for Eugene were scored by Justin Burgin (2), Sean Peters (2), and Dan Tichy (1).  Portland scored twice with one conversion.

This was an excellent start to our season; many new faces were out with a lot of veterans returning as well.  Eugene's Man of the Match was JQ Schaller for his hustle and excellent play during the match.

Eugene starts league play on March 1st in Bremerton, Washington, against Peninsula.  Eugene is currently 1st Place among D3 teams in the northwest.   Eugene practices Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6 p.m. in west Eugene.  Visit www.EugeneRugby.com or call 338-9111 for more information or directions.

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FALL 2002

November 16, 2002 - Eugene Defeats Southern Ore. Univ. & Redding RFC

(Ashland) – Eugene travelled down to Ashland to play a season-ending round robin.  It seemed that the theme of the day was injuries as player after player came off the pitch during the 3 matches.  Southern Oregon University started off playing Redding Rugby Club (Cal.) and won pretty handily.

Eugene then faced off against SOU.  The final score was 17-12.  It was a close game against a very big and strong SOU side.  Eugene's play was very sloppy with many errors and penalties.  Eugene had 4 guys go off injured, including a wobbly Sean Peters with a broken nose.  Against his claims of being okay, he was done for the day.

Next, was Redding, a division-III team, versus Eugene.  Arnie Jones from SOU really stood out in this match scoring 3 tries after having already played the 2 previous. Imagine a clone of Matty Springer and you get this guy.  Eugene won this match 19-7.  Mike Arnold was 2-2 on conversions.  Again, a number of players went off injured. 

After the match SOU offered up a rookie for a zulu and Sean made up some thing about scoring a hat trick for a men's club means a zulu, so Arnie joined his teammate. 

The social, hosted at Arnie's house (the guy did it all this weekend) was highlighted by a virtual deadheat in the boat race between Eugene and Redding and a spirited rookie lift featuring about a dozen rookies, including our own Bub, Steve, and Jeff.

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October 19, 2002 - Eugene Defeats New Team - Eugene 116 - Seattle Quake 0

(Seattle) – On Saturday, 10/19/02, after observing a moment of silence for the lost lives in the Bali tragedy, the Quake kicked off to the visitors from Eugene.  The match was pretty one-sided in the backs with forward play more even and well contested at set pieces.  It was a dry day with good rugby conditions played on a decent pitch at Marymore Park.   

Eugene put up 72 unanswered points by half with hard running and good ball handling.  Few penalties from either side kept things moving along.  Both sides had their share of rookies and all played with heart.  There were no disciplinary problems at all.  The match was played on the field with only 5 or 6 lineouts all match.  

Eugene was unstoppable in the second half as well, finishing with 116 unanswered points total.  Rookie prop Rufus “Bub” Crump scored his first-ever try from a pass on a penalty kick, barreling 35 meters and running over 5 Quake players.  Following the try, a great show was made of his breakfast at midfield. 

A total of 24 tries were scored by Eugene on the day--half of which occurred on kickoff returns after the Quake repeatedly kicked the ball to the track-meet-ready backline.  Eugene finished the day with its 3rd-consecutive league victory.

Scoring:
Justin Burgin – 4 tries, 1 conversion
Josh Bloomquist – 2 tries
Rufus “Bub” Crump – 1 try
Joey Frizzell – 3 tries
TC Hales – 4 tries
Jayme Meadows – several conversions
Matt Mulholand – 1 try
Sean Peters – 3 tries
JQ Schaller – 2 tries
Matty Springer – 4 tries

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October 13, 2002 - Eugene Defeats Archrival - Eugene 33 - Bend 21

(Springfield) – On Saturday, October 12, 2002, Eugene came out hard and secured an early lead, beating Bend only the second time since 1994.  For most of the second half it appeared Eugene was in protection mode, attempting to sit on the lead.  The match was well-played with both sides hitting the rucks hard.  Bend's score would have been much higher had it not been for several strings of try-saving tackles by Eugene while Bend was within Eugene's 22.  Eugene held off some late-game heroics by Bend despite having a man sin-binned for 10 minutes.  Matty Springer was Eugene's Man of the Match.

Eugene is right on track to traveling to Arizona for the Pacific Coast Regional Championships in May.  Last October Eugene narrowly defeated Bend at home, but missed the playoffs when Bend handedly won in the spring.

Scoring:
Justin Burgin - 1 try; 4/5 conversions; 0/1 penalties (13 pts)
Matty Springer - 2 tries (10 pts)
Steve Strickland - 2 try (10 pts)

Eugene plays the Seattle Quake this Saturday away.  For more information, visit www.EugeneRugby.com or call 463-9483. Eugene is always looking for new and used players.

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October 8, 2002 - Eugene Wins Big in 1st League Match - Eugene 50 - Budd Bay 0

(Olympia) – On Saturday, October 5, 2002, Eugene put up 8 tries against a hard-hitting Budd Bay. Eugene appeared to be out matched in the set pieces but were able to hold strong in the loose. Eugene's backs dominated, scoring all the day's tries. Micah Bronitsky had a phenomenal 5 tries on the day.

Scoring:
- Mark Baldwin, winger - 1 try (5 pts)
- Justin Burgin, center - 1 try, 2/6 conversions, 2/3 penalty kicks (15 pts)
- Micah Bronitsky - 5 tries, 0/2 conversions (25 pts)
- Steve Strickland - 1 try (5 pts)

(Past Match Reports) (Past Seasons/Results) (Press Release Archive)

September 29, 2002 - Eugene Loses to Portland Pigs 8-27

(Corvallis) – On Saturday, September 28, 2002, Eugene struck first blood early in the match after flyhalf Josh Blomquist broke a tackle at Portland's 40 meter line. He proceeded to challenge another Portland back, making him commit. Blomquist then did an over-the-head pass to winger Mike Arnold on the left. Arnold ran along the sideline until the Portland fullback came across the field and made contact with him along the five-meter line. Arnold knocked down the fullback's high tackle with a forearm, fell to the ground short of the tryzone, but reached forward for the try.

Although Eugene came out strong, many missed tackles allowed several Portland breakaway tries. Captain-scrumhalf Shane Card put Eugene's final 3 points on the board via penalty kick at the end of the frist half.

Eugene plays its first league match of the season this Saturday against Budd Bay in Olympia, Wash.

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September 23, 2002 - Eugene Places 2nd at 10's Tourney; Loses to Bend 15-21 in Finals
by Mike Arnold

(Eugene) – On Saturday, September 21, 2002, Eugene scored over 100 points in route to a second-place finish at the
Eugene Rugby Celebration 10's Tournament.  Eugene lost in the finals against archrival Bend 15-21.

Bend was ahead the entire match until Eugene pulled in front by a score of 15-14 with Peni Siaso scoring after a breakway by Jayme Meadows with about one minute left.  Bend won on a Rich Miller try with no time remaining in the game. 

Men's teams in attendance included ORSU (Portland), Seattle Quake, Portland Pigs, Redding/Santa Rosa, Eugene Old Boys, Peninsula (Bremerton, Wash.), University of Oregon, Reed College. Women's teams included ORSU, Seattle Mudhens, Eugene, University of Oregon, and Reed College.

10's Tournament Champions:
Men's – Bend Roughriders
Women's – Seattle Mudhens

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September 14, 2002 - Eugene Loses to Tough Div. 1 Opponent: Eugene 12 - ORSU 24
by Mike Arnold

(Portland, Ore.) – On Saturday, September 14, 2002, Eugene, a Div. III team, lost to the ORSU Jesters, a Div. I team, 12-24.  Eugene held ORSU scoreless for most of the first half until ORSU put up two unanswered tries without conversions.   

Eugene came back in the second half with an early try by scrumhalf Shane Card.  Eugene capped off the day with a try by Portland guest player Webb Ellis. The high point of the day was rookie Rufus “Bub” Crump’s performance at loose-head prop.  Crump, a 6 ft., 260 lb. former football player, quickly earned the respect of the opposing front row as he manhandled them in the set pieces.   A special thanks to the ORSU players that stepped in with Eugene traveling light.

Eugene:
Shane Card (Captain) – 1 try
Webb Ellis – 1 try
Peni Siaso – 1 conversion  

Eugene’s next opponent will be at the Eugene Rugby Celebration 10’s Tournament on Saturday at Lane Community College.  Kickoff is at 9:00 a.m.; men’s, women’s, and high school games will be played until dark.  For more information, visit www.EugeneRugby.com or call Mike Arnold at 338-9111.

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SPRING 2002

April 6, 2002 - Eugene Loses to Division I Opponent, ORSU Jesters, 12-64
by Mike Arnold

(Springfield, Ore.) – On April 6, 2002, Eugene, a Pacific Northwest Division III team, took on the ORSU Jesters, a Division I team from Portland. Although the score showed ORSU's offensive dominance, it did not entirely reflect the hard play by Eugene's much smaller and more inexperienced side. Plagued by injuries, Eugene had moments of brilliance on the pitch, especially within the pack in the loose.

The pack moved the ball down the pitch well in second and third phase. However, ORSU's pack dominated Eugene in the set pieces. It was a rare treat when Eugene's backline got clean ball.

The backs were confronted with ORSU's vicious inside-center. Everyone on the Eugene side found it nearly impossible to knock him to the ground.  The backs were held scoreless for the second match in the row, a tough contrast to their high-scoring season. Flyhalf John Benazzi did well in seeing the gaps in ORSU’s defense and then exploiting them with some hard runs. Inside-center Darren Polamalu did the same.

Saturday’s match had an interesting link to ERFC history.  In 1973, Ross Shepard founded Eugene Rugby Football Club. On April 6, 2002, he played a half as a Eugene lock.

In the second half, Kevin Graham’s try was scored after Eugene pounded away to the left of the uprights. Also notable in the second half was Scott Lacey’s work on the pitch.  Lacey, who has played fullback and winger for Eugene this season, was unexpectedly moved to the pack as a lock. Having never played lock before, Lacey was surprised by coach Sean Peters’ decision. However, he never looked back. Every time Lacey had the ball he was a threat, eventually running over two ORSU players for a try. He also managed to convert his own try.

Jim Kautz officiated a great match where a good time was had by all. Twenty-two years ago Kautz made his rugby debut with these very same teams.

Scoring:  
Kevin Graham (prop) - 1 try (5 pts) (John Benazzi missed conversion)
Scott Lacey (lock) - 1 try (5 pts)
Lacey - converted his own try (2 pts)

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March 23, 2002 - Eugene Misses Playoff Berth: Eugene 3 - Bend 43
by Mike Arnold

(Bend, Ore.) – March 23, 2000, marked another clash of the D-III powerhouses--Eugene vs. the Bend Roughriders.  The day was marked by many missed tackles by Eugene, resulting in many breakaway tries and a 3-43 Eugene loss.  Bend played like a team that wanted to redeem itself after a close loss to Eugene in the fall. The Bend Roughriders will represent the Pacific Northwest 3rd division at the Pacific Coast Regionals against Chico in the first round.  

The Eugene pack played strong, winning several of the opposition’s scrums; Eugene’s lineouts were the best they’ve seen against Bend for sometime. The backline got little clean ball from the set pieces because of Bend scrumhalf Rob Day’s relentless attack on Eugene scrumhalf-captain Shane Card. 

Hooker Bob Pierce scored Eugene’s only 3 points via penalty kick and was named Eugene’s Man of the Match due to his great tackling and ferocious play.  This was likely Pierce’s last match with Eugene.  Pierce has had a great nine-year run with the club and has been an asset on and off the pitch.  

Credit should be given to both sides for their sportsmanship and clean play. In the past, the Eugene-Bend matches have always been plagued with unnecessary penalties and poor play after the whistle. This time around it was all about the game and less about personalities.  Referee Jason Huntley controlled the match well.  

The highlight of the day was Eugene’s B-side, which shows that the future of Eugene looks bright.  The second-side match was played with a mix of veterans and rookies on both sides.  Bob Pierce barreled through Bend’s defense scoring Eugene’s only try of the day.  

Scoring:
Bob Pierce (hooker) - 1 penalty kick (3 pts)

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March 16, 2002 - Eugene Has Another Big Win: Eugene 58 - Budd Bay (Olympia) 0
by Matt Truta

(Springfield) – On Saturday, March 16, 2002, Eugene scored early and often in a one sided contest this Saturday with Olympia club Budd Bay. Eugene's forwards won clean ball at the set pieces and the home team's backline again proved dangerous with ball in hand, attacking from everywhere and scoring seven of Eugene’s ten tries. Due to a stifling Eugene defense, Budd Bay was never able to get any real offensive momentum in a match that was played in truly horrendous conditions. Freezing rain, sleet, and hail fell through much of the game, nearing white-out conditions for much of the second half. To their credit, Budd Bay never let up and made hard tackles, even while playing a man down.  

This week's win marks the second of Eugene's three league matches. Next week Eugene travels to the mountains to do battle with archrival Bend in a must-win match.  

Scores: 10 tries; 4/10 conversions
Kevin Graham (prop) - 1 Try
Karl Knoll (wing) - 1 Try
Scott Lacey (wing) - 1 Try
Darren Polamalu (outside-center) - 2 Try
John Benazzi (flyhalf) - 1 Try
Zaid McKie (fullback) - 1 Try
Mike Arnold (inside-center) - 1 Try
Matty Springer (8-man) - 2 Try
Bob Pierce (hooker) – 4 Conversions

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March 9, 2002 - Eugene Defeats Peninsula RFC 36-5
by Matt Truta & Mike Arnold

(Bremerton, WA) – On Saturday, March 9, 2002, Eugene RFC visited Penninsula RFC of Bremerton, Washington, in the first of Eugene's three spring league matches. Eugene came out ahead with a one-sided 36-5 victory in an important league match. Eugene controlled most of the match and played committed defense to chalk up their first of three consecutive wins needed to advance to the Div III Regional Tournament.  

Tries were scored from forwards and backs alike in a loose playing game. The first try was scored by winger Steve Strickland. On that play flyhalf John Benazzi had a chip kick to the corner called. Eugene was about 15 meters out. As they aproached the gain line, a huge hole in their defense opened up in front of Strickland. Benazzi saw it and popped Strickland the ball, and he cruised in from there.

Outside-center Darren Polamalu scored when the ball came out from some loose play, going from Matty Springer to Eric Pakulak. Pak made good yardage upfield and pulled in their outside center. He went into contact and gave a great little pop pass which Polamalu took 40 meters, breaking a tackle by the wing and juking the fullback to score underneath the uprights.

Later, Benazzi was the next to touch down while fielding scrum-half Shane Card's kick and running 20 meters for the try. Wingers Steve Strickland and Scott Lacey proved to be too much for their counterparts and both contributed to the score with a try a piece. Lacey's try occurred after Polamalu picked up a loose ball and attracted quite a crowd before giving a great pass to Lacey, who then ran 20 meters upfield about 5 meters from touch. Lacey had two bodies between him and the try zone; he ran past the first and met the second near the line and was able to overpower him for the try..

Center Mike Arnold had 1 try on the day. It happend from a maul on the 1-meter line. Eric Pakulak distributed the ball to inside center Mike Arnold. Arnold ran over the opposing inside center and flyhalf for the try to the left of the posts.

Veteran Eric Pakulak ran in for a try as well. After a line out from 5 meters out, Matt Truta scooped up a loose ball under pressure and started a rolling mall toward the line. Pakulak secured the ball and scored as the rest of the pack pushed them in. Penninsula scored a controversial try in the last play of the game.  

Eugene's backline again proved their talent and scoring ability when given clean ball from the forwards; the backs scored five of the six tries. Flankers Ben Piaso and Matt Springer deserve recognition for with their athletic and aggressive play in the open field. Special mention should be made to the Penninsula club for being great hosts following the match. Next week Eugene next faces the unknown and dangerous Budd Bay club of Olympia, Washington. Kickoff at 2:00 PM at Thurston High School.

Scoring: 6 Tries; 3 of 6 Conversions
Steve Strickland: 5 pts.
Eric Pakulak: 5 pts.
John Benazzi: 5 pts; 2/2 on conversions
Darren Polamalu: 5 pts.
Mike Arnold: 5 pts.
Scott Lacey: 5 pts.; 1/2 on conversions

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February 16, 2002 - Eugene Defeats University of Oregon 26-7

(Eugene) --by Matt Truta - On a lovely spring-like afternoon on Saturday, February 16th, the Eugene Rugby club bested the University of Oregon Ducks in a friendly match 26-7 at Southbank Field. Saturday's match gave coaches of both teams an opportunity to experiment with lineups in a non-league setting.  The Eugene club came out with a heavier and much more experienced pack than the undergraduates of the University of Oregon; as a result, Eugene dominated possession in the set pieces.

Both sides suffered handling problems and penalties which stifled the flow of the game.  It was Eugene that dotted down the first try of the game by hooker Bob Pierce. Pierce also had a strong day with the boot going 3 from 4 for conversions. Speedster Zaid McKie again proved his worth by showcasing his finishing skills in the scoring of another try. Shortly before the end of the first half, Duck fullback Josh Bloomquist scored impressively when he ran nearly 60 meters and scored untouched under the posts. Bloomquist kicked his own conversion.

The second half proved more of the same with Karl Knoll finishing off a pretty backline move which saw the ball in the hands of four backline players before reaching goal. Eugene continued their frustrating trend of a lack of discipline and saw two players sin-binned for speaking to the referee. Flanker Matt Truta sealed the game with a try in the closing moments of the contest.

Special mention should be made to the newly christened Clegg-Snyder Cup presented to the winner of the two Eugene clubs. The Cup is named for Ben Clegg and Bob Snyder for their outstanding contributions to rugby in the city of Eugene.

Eugene will begin its league schedule on March 9th at Peninsula.  For more information visit www.EugeneRugby.com. 

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January 28, 2002 - Eugene Defeats Southern Oregon Universty 35-10

(Eugene) On Saturday, January 26, 2002, Eugene played Southern Oregon University, Eugene's most physical opponent in a very long time.  The boys from SOU ran hard and hit harder, never giving less than 110%.  Eugene managed to pull off the victory 35-10. 

Eugene Tries:
Steve Strickland: 1 try (5 points)
Karl Knoll: 1 try (5 pts)
John Benazzi: 1 try (5 pts)
Bob Pierce: 1 try (5 pts)
Matt Truta: 1 try (5 pts)
Josh: 1 try (5 pts)  

Eugene Penalty Kicks and Conversions:
Justin Burgin: 1 for 3 on penalties (3 pts.)
John Benazzi: 1 for 4 on conversion attempts (2 pts)
Scott Lacy: 0 for 2 on conversion attempts
Bob Pierce: 0 for 1 on conversion attempts

SOU: 2 unconverted tries (10 pts)

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January 19, 2002 - Eugene Loses Third in a Row to Portland Pigs 5-32

(Portland) Eugene lost to the Portland Pigs Saturday, January 19, 2002 in Portland. It was a very physical match where the better team won, despite the marsh-like swampfield. Final score: Pigs 5 - Eugene 32.

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FALL 2001

November 17, 2001 - Eugene Squeaks By OSU's B-side

(Corvallis) - In the first half of the game ERFC was penalized approximately 15 times for being offside at rucks, 3 times at mauls and twice at scrums.  OSU's Bs took advantage of these repeated offenses, turning the penalties into excellent field position; they then capitalized on the ground and gained by consistently winning their own lineout ball and a fair share of Eugene's.  This kept Eugene playing on their heels in their own half for the lion's share of the first half.  

Keeping a team penned up in their own half allows one to capitalize easily on mistakes, turning miscues into points.  OSU turned some poor Eugene tackling into one try early in the match.  OSU then did some solid rucking and crashing to create another try later in the first half.  Both tries went unconverted in the difficult conditions resulting in a 10 - 0 halftime score.  

In the second half, Eugene seemed to have remembered what the word "offsides" meant.  With Eugene's penalty total growing only slightly in the second half, OSU was not able to advance the ball as easily.  The Eugene forwards put the OSU scrum under constant pressure and also contested possession in the lineout.  The Eugene backs kept the OSU backs under near constant pressure on defense with their two All-American centers rarely allowing the ball past the fly half and never to the wing.   

The pressure paid off when Eugene's Steve Strickland broke the ice with a fine kick-and-chase try in fourth phase.  A few minutes later Chris Lampe fed Bob Pierce the ball on a crash off the short side of a third phase ruck, scoring Pierce on the touchline and leveling the scores at ten.  The Eugene forwards continued their domination of OSU's forwards providing tidy ball for the Eugene backs creating two more tries (one converted); this put Eugene up 22-10.   

However, OSU  wouldn't surrender; they took advantage of some poor tackling and scored two tries (one converted) to even the score at 22.  Eugene seemed to recognize the urgency of the situation.  They answered the challenge with a well constructed try-scoring drive that would seal the match with a 27-22 final tally.  

Eugene Scoring:
Strickland: try (5pts)
Pierce: try and conversion (7pts)
Harrison: 2 tries (10pts)
Chuck: try (5pts)  
OSU Bs: 4 tries, one converted (22pts)

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October 27, 2001 - Eugene Defeats Bend 16-14

(Springfield) - On Saturday, October 27, at Thurston High School, Eugene Rugby Club defeated archrival Bend RFC for the first time since 1997.  Bend was the favorite based on their performance against common opponents this fall. While Eugene squeaked by Budd Bay 27-10, Bend handedly defeated them 64-7. While Eugene was squashed by ORSU 44-0, Bend defeated them 34-24. Nonetheless, Eugene won when it counted 16-14 and now stands alone atop the Division III standings of the Pacific Northwest Rugby Football Union.

By all accounts, this was truly a ferocious match.  In the first half, Bend was penalized within their half twice, allowing Justin Burgin to go 2 for 2 on penalties early on.  Eugene led 6-0.  After nearly a half of solid defense by both sides, Eugene flanker Sean Peters picked off a pass and ran 40 meters for the try.  Justin Burgin converted it and Eugene led 13-0 at half.

Bend came out hard in the second half, scoring two converted tries, placing them in the lead by 1 point (Eugene 13-Bend 14).  With only minutes left in the match, Eugene hammered away relentlessly, until finally forcing a mistake by the Bend side.  Bend was again penalized within their 50-meters, dead center of the uprights.  Winger Burgin made his third penalty kick of the day, pulling Eugene ahead by two with two minutes remaining.  Eugene only had to hold off the Bend attack to pull out the victory.

Steady pressure by the Eugene backline forced the Bend flyhalf Mike Abbot to kick away the ball.  Fullback John Benazzi fielded the kick.  After a little pop kick by Benazzi, Bend reclaimed the ball and proceeded to hammer away at Eugene for the next several minutes.  With no time left on the clock, a Bend try or any mistake by the Bend offense would end the game.  Bend refused to let up and ran a beautiful string of multi-phase rugby.  However, Eugene defended it.

A Bend back made a breakaway down the sideline when Eugene winger Steve Strickland came up to defend.  Strickland nailed him with a hard tackle, forcing a Bend knock-on and ending the match with Eugene victorious.

Eugene finishes the fall season alone in first place amongst Pacific Northwest Division III teams.  Eugene plays Oregon State Univ. on Nov. 17 in Corvallis and will begin the second half of the 2001-02 season in February. Eugene hopes to stay in first place and travel to the Pacific Coast Regional Championships in April.

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October 20, 2001 - Young Eugene Side Shutout by ORSU

(Portland) - On Saturday, October 20th, Eugene Rugby Club traveled to Portland to take on ORSU's Division II side (Oregon Rugby Sports Union Jesters). Eugene held strong in the first half, allowing only 12 points scored against them. However, the 12 point deficit was short lived. The Jesters came out even stronger in the second half capitalizing on every Eugene mistake and putting another 32 points on the board for a final score of Eugene 0 - ORSU 44.

Despite this being the only shutout that Eugene has faced in recent memory, there were some bright spots to the match. Eugene played a total of four rookies: Rex Basting, Scott Lacey, Karl Knoll, and James Alford. Each showed a developed understanding of the game.

Eugene's first-fifteen should be healthy and ready to take on division opponent Bend RFC at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday at Thurston High School. Eugene's debut at Thurston High School is to encourage students to play high school rugby this spring.

Eugene RFC's Lineup vs. ORSU
1. Duke Allen, prop, UO Grad Student
2. Kris Green, hooker, Lowell
3. Kevin Graham, prop, Eugene
4. Seth Basting, lock, Eugene
5. Rex Basting, flanker, Sweet Home
6. Scott Lacey, flanker, UO Grad Student
7. Eric Pakulak, lock, UO Grad Student
8. Ben from Samoa, 8-man, Eugene
9. Chris Lampe, scrumhalf, Eugene
10. Shane Card, flyhalf, Corvallis (Captain)
11. Steve Strickland, wing, Eugene
12. Mike Arnold, center, Eugene
13. Justin Burgin, center, Lowell
14. Karl Knoll, wing, Silverton
15. John Benazzi, fullback, UO Law School
16. James Alford, wing, UO Grad School

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October 6, 2001 - Eugene Wins Hard-Fought Match 27-10; Budd Bay Much Improved

(Olympia, Washington) MATCH RESULTS: Eugene made the long trip to Olympia to take on league opponent Budd Bay Rugby Club on Saturday. Eugene handedly defeated Budd Bay (formerly Olympia RFC) both times they faced last season, defeating them 45-12 (fall 2000) and 64-5 (spring 2001).  This time the match was much closer, but Eugene pulled off the victory 27-10 in vicious battle of the two Division III opponents.  

In the first half, inside-center Manase Latu scored a try, dragging the Budd Bay backs into the try zone. Winger Justin Burgin had the conversion.  The much-improved Budd Bay came out strong, hitting hard in all aspects of the game. They answered Eugene's 7 points with a try of their own. Eugene was up 7-5.  Eugene followed with another try as Latu rambled his way over the Budd Bay backs a second time. Eugene 12 - Budd Bay 5.  Budd Bay answered with another try and was only behind by two at half.  

Eugene had its third try early in the second half.  Scrumhalf Brian Simoneau picked the ball off the back of the scrum; eight-man Zeke Twardzik received the pass from Simoneau on the eight-man peal.  Twardzik ran to the weak side making contact with two Budd Bay defenders as he scored the try.  Eugene led 17-10.  

The rest of the match remained a hard clash between the two sides.  With Budd Bay only behind by one try and a conversion, they hammered away at Eugene, pressing back the defense within Eugene's own 22 meters.  Budd Bay played exceptional multi-phase rugby for the next eight minutes hammering away with crashes.  The Eugene defense held strong until a Budd Bay forward caused a penalty, giving possession back to Eugene.  

Late in the second half with minutes remaining and Eugene still only up by one try, Eugene made a hard run through three phases.  Simoneau picked the ball up off the back of a ruck and ran to the left.  He made the pass to Latu, who ran at two defenders committing them to the play.  Latu broke one tackle and then fed the ball to fullback Mike Arnold as the Budd Bay fullback came across filling the hole in the defense.  The fullbacks collided on the goal line as Arnold overpowered the much smaller Budd Bay player for the try.  

With Eugene up 22-10, Captain-flyhalf Shane Card tells the Eugene side that the match is over if Eugene puts the ball to touch; the victory for Eugene was mathematically secured with no time remaining. However, Budd Bay had other plans.  Although it was impossible for Budd Bay to catch-up, they answered the Eugene try by approaching the kickoff like caged animals. They did a surprise kickoff to the backline rather than the pack, which a Eugene back knocked on.  From the scrumdown, Budd Bay crashed the ball repeatedly as the Eugene defense held solid.  Budd Bay inched their way down the field until Card had enough.  He picked off a pass from the scrumhalf to the flyhalf and ran 85 meters for the try.  

Eugene's Man of the Match was Manase Latu.  The Eugene player vote recognized Latu for his ferocious tackling on defense and his command of the offensive crashes.  Eugene is now 2-2 overall and 2-0 in the league standings.  

Scoring:

• Zeke Twardzik 1 Try (5 pts.)
• Mansase Latu 2 Tries (10 pts.)
• Mike Arnold 1 Try (5 pts.)
• Shane Card 1 Try (5 pts.)
• Justin Burgin 1 Conversion (2 pts.)

Oct. 6 Lineup:

1. Duke Allen, prop (UO Grad School)
2. Jayme Meadows, hooker (Lebanon)
3. Kevin Graham, prop (Eugene)
4. Dan Tichy, lock (UO School of Law)
5. Seth Basting, lock (Sweet Home)
6. Sean Peters, flanker (Springfield)
7. Matty Springer, flanker (Eugene)
8. Zeke Twardzik, #8 (Eugene)
9. Brian Simoneau, scrumhalf (UO Grad School)
10. Shane Card, flyhalf (Corvallis)
11. Justin Burgin, winger (Lowell)
12. Manase Latu, inside-center (Eugene)
13. Ben, outside-center
14. Karl Knoll, winger (Silverton)
15. Mike Arnold, fullback (Eugene)
16. Matt Strickland, winger (Eugene) - in for Knoll at half
17. Bryan Streety, prop (Junction City) - in for Allen (injured) at half

NEXT MATCH: Eugene has next weekend off.  Eugene travels to Portland to take on the ORSU Jesters on October 20th and then hosts league rival, the Bend Roughriders, on October 27th (location TBA).  

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September 29, 2001 - Eugene Begins Strong, Overcome By Portland 17-35

(Eugene, Oregon) Eugene (a Division III team in the Pacific Northwest Rugby Football Union) played a solid first half against the Portland Pigs Rugby Football Club (Division II), but was overcome by Portland's more powerful pack. The Eugene backline had a great day accounting for all three Eugene tries and the only conversion. After resisting a Portland attack early in the first half, Eugene opened up the running game, pounding away at the Portland defense. Several breakaways resulted in Eugene very close to Portland's try zone. On a third phase ball, scrumhalf Brian Simoneau sneaked in for the try. Justin Burgin kicked the conversion.  

With Eugene up to an early 7-0 lead, Portland's flyhalf opened up the kicking game, relieving pressure from Eugene's relentless flyhalf Shane Card and centers Manase Latu and Mike Arnold. Early in the second half Eugene's backline pounded away on the Portland defense. After two hard phases of running by Card and then Latu, outside-center Mike Arnold picked the ball off the back of a ruck five meters out, flattened one defender, and then ran in for the try (no conversion).  

Portland answered that with two converted tries; then, Eugene followed with another hard run by inside-center Manase Latu. From then on, Portland's pack took over, winning every lineout while out rucking and out mauling Eugene. They finished off Eugene with three unanswered tries (all converted) for a final score of Eugene 17 - Portland 35.  

Eugene's Man of the Match was winger Steve Strickland, who had a phenomenal running and defensive game while rucking like a forward.

Scoring:

• Brian Simoneau 1 Try (5 pts.)
• Mike Arnold 1 Try (5 pts.)
• Manase Latu 1 Tries (15 pts.)
• Justin Burgin 1 Conversion (2 pts.)

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September 23, 2001 - Eugene Blanks Peninsula (Bremerton, WA) 68-0

(Eugene, Oregon) Match Results: Eugene RFC is one step closer in its quest to win the Pacific Northwest RFU D-3 title. Eugene played two solid halves putting up their highest scoring match ever by shutting out Peninsula RFC (Bremerton, WA) 68-0. The score does not adequately reflect the tenacity demonstrated by Peninsula.  Peninsula ran off the rucks and mauls with ferocious strength, often keeping the Eugene players on their heals.   

Scoring:

• Mike Arnold 1 Try (5 pts.)
• John Benazzi 3 Tries (15 pts.)
• Justin Burgin 1 Try (5 pts.) , 1 Penalty (3 pts.) , 4/11 Conversions (8 pts.), 16 pts. total
• Manase Latu 1 Try (5 pts.)
• Sean Peters 2 Tries (10 pts.)
• Steve Strickland 1 Try (5 pts.)  
• Zeke Twardzik 2 Tries (10 pts.)

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September 19, 2001 - Eugene loses 12-3 in close match vs. Portland Pigs; Eugene B-side wins

Eugene, a Division III team in the Pacific Northwest Rugby Football Union, lost 12-3 last Saturday to the Portland Pigs, a tough Division II opponent. Despite playing a team from a higher division, Eugene held strong for most of the first half.  In the second match of the day, Eugene defeated Portland 12-5.  Linn County resident, Jayme Meadows, was voted Eugene's Man of the Match.  In the first match, winger Justin Burgin kicked one penalty goal (3 pts.).  In the second match, tries (5 pts. ea.) were scored by fullback John Benazzi and flanker Sean Peters with Burgin converting one try (2 pts.).

SPRING 2001

4/14/01 - Peninsula @ Eugene

EUGENE DEFEATS PENINSULA 60-0: Eugene Rugby Club came together well during its last match of the season, defeating Peninsula (Washington) 60-0 at home. A special thanks to Peninsula for making the long trip to Eugene. Scoring for Eugene was Bob Pierce with 3 tries, Justin Burgin with 2 tries, and Mark Baldwin, Sean Peters, John Benazzi, and Jason Waterman with 1 try a piece.

1. Robert "Duke" Allen, Loose head prop*
2. Bob Pierce, Hooker (3 tries 15 pts)
3. Kevin Graham, Tight head prop
4. Greg Farrell, Lock
5. Owen Sims, Lock
6. Benjamin Figard, Flanker
7. Sean Peters, Flanker (1 tries, 5 pts)
8. John Scott "Zeke" Twardzik, Number 8
9. Jeff McHenry, Scrum 1/2
10. Mark Rolland, Fly 1/2 (7/10 conversions, 14 pts)
11. Mark Baldwin, Wing (try, 5pts)
12. John Benazzi, Inside Center (try, 5pts)**
13. Justin Burgin, Outside Center (2 tries, 10 pts)
14. Karl Knoll, Wing
15. Denis Reynaud, Full back
16. Jim LeVash
17. Jason Waterman (try, 5pts)
18. Chandler Encino  
*Replaced by James T. LeVash 40th min
**Replaced by Jason Waterman 10th min

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3/28/01 - Bend @ Eugene

EUGENE LOSES TO BEND 20-36: Eugene Rugby Club suffered a heartbreaker at the hands of the Bend Roughriders Saturday, March 24th in Springfield.  Eugene started off with the lead with an early try but lost in the end 20-36 to a more cohesive and opportunistic Bend side.  The Eugene ruggers were their own worst enemy, allowing four penalty kicks that were converted into 12 points by Bend scrumhalf Rob Day.    Eugene will attempt to finish the season strong in Bremerton, Washington, Saturday followed by their last home match April 14th against Peninsula RFC.

ERFC Tries (5 points): Bob Pierce (Eugene), Brian Simoneau (UO Grad Student), Kevin Graham (Eugene).  Penalty Kicks: Mark Rolland (3 pts.)

Eugene Rugby 1st XV   (Saturday, March 24th)

1.   Kris Green (Lowell), Loose head prop*
2.   Bob Pierce Hooker (Eugene) Captain (Try 5pts)
3.   Kevin Graham (Eugene), Prop (Try 5pts)
4.   Ben Figard (Corvallis), Lock
5.   Josh Barbour (Springfield), Lock
6.   Jason Waterman (Springfield), Flanker
7.   Sean Peters (Eugene), Flanker
8.   Zeke Twardzik (Eugene), 8 man
9.   Brian J. Simoneau (UO Grad School), Scrumhalf (Try 5pts)
10. John Benazzi (Eugene), Flyhalf
11. Justin Burgin (Lowell), Wing
12. Manase Latu (Eugene), Inside-center
13. Jeff McHenry (Eugene), Outside-center
14. Mike Arnold (UO Law School), Wing
15. Mark Rolland (Eugene), Fullback (1/3 conversions; 1/1 penalties 3pts)
Reserves:
16. Joe Frizzell (Eugene)
*Joe Frizzell replaced Green 30th minute.  Frizzell to flanker Waterman to
prop.
17. Jim LeVash (Eugene)
18. Greg Farrell (Eugene)

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3/17/01 - Olympia @ Eugene

EUGENE DEFEATS OLYMPIA 64-5: The Eugene Rugby Club has dominated this spring, outscoring opponents 148-17.  Saturday was no exception when Eugene defeated Olympia Rugby Club (Washington) 64-5.

For a third consecutive match, Eugene started off slowly, seeming to wait for the Olympia ruggers to strike first.  Less than two minutes into the first half, Eugene allowed a hard Olympia drive to end with a try scored (5 points).  This would be the last time that Olympia would see the try zone on the offensive.

Eugene seemed to take the Olympia try personally and took to the attack for the rest of the match.  The team scored a total of 10 tries (a try is the rugby equivalent to a touchdown) with 7 of 10 kick conversions successful.

With flyhalf Mark Rolland playing Fullback, John Benazzi took the helm as flyhalf for the first time Saturday.  Benazzi didn't lose a step and scored an amazing 5 tries (25 points), earning his second consecutive "Man of the Match."  Matt Springer, Jeff McHenry, Duke Allen, Sean Peters, and Mike Arnold each scored a try a piece as well.  Rolland was a perfect 6 for 6 on kick conversions (12 points); Jason Waterman was 1 for 1 on kick conversions
(2 points).

Eugene Rugby Club Roster (Saturday, March 17th)
1.  Duke Allen (UO Grad School), Prop - 1 Try (5 pts)
2.  Bob Pierce* Captain (Eugene), Hooker Injured at 40th minute
3.  Kevin Graham (Eugene), Prop
4.  Ben Figard (Corvallis), Lock
5.  Matt Springer (Eugene), Lock - 1 Try (5 pts)
6.  Sean Peters (Eugene), Flanker - 1 Try (5 pts)
7.  Josh Barbour (Springfield), Flanker
8.  Jason Waterman (Springfield), 8 Man 1/1 conversion (2 pts)
9.  Brian Simoneau (UO Grad School), Scrumhalf
10.John Benazzi (Eugene), Flyhalf - 5 tries; 0/2 conversion kicks (25 pts)
11.Justin Burgin (Lowell), Wing
12.Mike Arnold (UO Law School), Inside-center - 1Try (5 pts)
13.Jeff McHenry (Eugene), Outside-center - 1 Try (5 pts)
14.Denis Reynaud** (Lyon, France), Wing; Injured at 20th minute
15. Mark Rolland (Eugene), Fullback - 0/1 drop goals, 6/6 conversions
(12pts)
*Jim LeVash replaced Pierce in 40th minute
**Karl Knoll (Albany) replaced Reynaud at 20th minute

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3/4/01 - UO Bs @ Eugene

EUGENE DEFEATS DUCKS Bs: The Eugene Rugby Club improved its 2000-01 record to 4-1 by defeating the University of Oregon Ducks Bs on Sunday, March 4th at South Bank Field in Eugene.  After two hard fought halves, the final score was 56-7.

Eugene started off slow in the first half with some unpolished play along the backline.  Eugene stepped onto the field after the second half with a
revived backline and fluid play by the forwards in the loose.  The team scored a total of 10 tries (a try is the rugby equivalent to a touchdown) with three conversions.

With three tries (15 points) and solid open-field tackling, Fullback John Benazzi was selected as "Man of the Match."  Duke Allen and Mike Arnold both scored a pair of tries a piece; Kevin Graham, Brian Simoneau, and Denis Reynaud each scored one try.

The Ducks single try was scored by Hooker Justin Burgin of Lowell.  It was converted by Flyhalf Josh Blomquist.

Eugene Rugby Club Roster
1.  Duke Allen (UO Grad School), Prop - 2 Tries (10 pts)
2. Kevin Graham (Eugene), Hooker - 1 Try (5 pts)
3. Kris Green (Lowell), Prop (injured at 30 min.)
4. Ben Figard (Corvallis), Lock
5. Josh Barbour (Springfield), Lock
7.   Matt Springer (Eugene), Flanker
9.   Brian Simoneau (UO Grad School), Scrumhalf - 1 Try (5 pts)
10. Mark Rolland (Eugene), Flyhalf - 2 out of 6 conversion kicks (4 pts)
11. Denis Reynaud (Eugene), Wing - 1 Try (5 pts)
12. Mike Arnold (UO Law School), Inside-center - 2 Tries (10 pts)
13. Jeff McHeury (Eugene), Outside-center
14. Bob Pierce* (Eugene), Wing (went to Prop at 30 min.) - 1/3 conversions
(2 pts)
15. John Benazzi (Eugene), Fullback - 3 Tries, 0/1 conversions (15 pts)
* Captain

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2/24/01 - ORSU U23 @ Portland

EUGENE DEFEATS ORSU UNDER-23's: Saturday, Eugene Rugby Club defeated the Oregon Rugby Sports Union (Portland) Jesters Under-23’s by a score of 28-5.  Eugene tries (5 points each) were scored by the following:
- Kris Green
- Matty Springer
- Bill Terill
- John Benazzi
- Bob Pierce
A drop goal (3 points) was also scored by flyhalf Mark Rolland.

Saturday’s line-up included:
1. Duke Allen, Prop
2. Bob Pierce, Hooker
3. Kris Green, Prop
4. Ben Figard, Lock
5. Matty Springer, Lock
9. Brian Simoneau, Scrumhalf
10. Mark Rolland, Flyhalf
12. Mike Arnold, Inside-center
13. Bill Terill, Outside-center
11. Denis Reynaud, Wing (right)
15. John Benazzi, Fullback
14. Ryan Green, Wing (left)

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For * indicated match reports, blame Corey Withroe