Aggie 2nd XV Enjoys Commanding Victory.
Press Release
February 4, 2006
Written By Josh Back
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College Station , TX - Texas A&M’s second side entertained the Rice 2nd XV shortly after the 20-0 first team win. Much like the previous game, there were big hits as both teams were aggressive.
It was the A&M forwards who enjoyed the majority of the opening exchanges as they relentlessly picked up ball in the loose to create a chain of rucks and mauls that lead to the first score.
The pack with youngsters and rookies played extremely well. Stand-outs were Englishman Sam Rooke at loose-head prop, and new arrival tight-head prop Gavin Secker, a recent USA Under-19 Eagle at the World Championships in South Africa.
Flowing play from both the pacey backs and the stalwart forwards saw the score begin to elevate. Unfortunately Rice did not have quite the depth as A&M and later in the game introduced their starting front row from the 1st XV game. The players were brought on to try to compensate for the quality of Rooke and Secker. To the Owl’s dismay, the Aggie pack was more than up to the challenge and created a pushover try from a scrum to cap their efforts.
It has to be said that there was a real showing of class from the rookie and young players, many of whom were playing their first competitive rugby match. The first timers saw plenty of action throughout the game with some excellent play from Noah Smithwick at wing, and Charles Admire and Reid Cupps in the pack. The well played and disciplined game made pleasant viewing.
Overall, Coach Navy was pleased with his men but perfecting the basics will be his focus in an effort to make all three Texas A&M teams as competitive as each other.
As rugby grows in the United States, it is pretty clear that there is a wealth of talent and enthusiasm that will surely create a fabulous rugby-loving country in the not too distant future. The number to the games this weekend and the 52 players that will make the long journey to Baton Rouge and LSU this weekend reflect this.