15s West Coast Regional Recap: University of San Diego

It was a beautiful setting at Harrington Field for a championship day of rugby. The sun was shining, the cherry blossoms in full bloom and the stands were full.

WWU won the opening kickoff but an errant pass was picked off by the USD #12 and he went 60m for the try. Not the start that was scripted in the game plan. This happened again and USD got their second pick six and took an early 14-0 lead. WWU went into the half down 22-3. 

It has been said that statistics don't lie, but help to paint the picture of the outcome. Compiling and analyzing the data from Saturday's West Coast Final, one would not have guessed the score was a 34-10 victory for the Toreros from the University of San Diego. Statistically: Possession WWU had 54.5% USD 42.2%, Penalties 6 to 13 for USD, Turnovers 4 to 10 USD, Passes made WWU 226 USD133, Line breaks 9-7 in favor of WWU.

"Statistically, the match leaned heavily in WWU’s favor. Our passing percentage and accuracy were well above expectations, reflecting the time, trust, and cohesion built over the course of the season. Ball-in-play time was also exceptional, pointing to our tempo, fitness, and commitment to playing dynamic rugby from whistle to whistle." -Coach Adam Roberts

Rugby is a game of moments, and ultimately, four key mistakes shifted the momentum and outcome. They weren’t the result of a lack of effort, but rather the fine margins at this level of competition. Each one cost us dearly and tilted a match that otherwise showed our quality, structure, and ability.

Both teams were well prepared and knew each others tendencies. The Toreros USD scored four trys of 50 meters or more. Our inability to score when we entered the 22m zone was a key factor in the final result. Lineout turnovers were a big factor as well as the staunch defense of the visitors.

WWU will graduate only three players from this year’s squad. Charlie Moore, Charlie Funk and Aiden Aschoff have all been a big part of the program over the last five years. With a recruiting class of about twenty players coming in the fall, the future is bright.  At WWU, we don't rebuild but only reload!

Next up, the CRAA D1AA 7s National Championship on May 17/18 in Lawrence, Kansas.