Aggies Finish Season Well At Westerns
Press Release
May 31, 2007
Written By Logan Free
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The Aggies traveled to Greeley, Colorado, home of the University of Northern Colorado, to compete in the Western Rugby Union playoffs this March. The first match slated for the 6th seed Aggies was 3rd seed University of Nebrasda - Lincoln
The dark horse Huskers had overcome the perennial juggernaut Oklahoma Sooners in their division to capture the 3rd seed in the tournament. Nebraska proved to be a much more skilled side than the Aggies had predicted. The match was closely contested, with both sides playing solid rugby. However, it was the Aggies who pulled out the magic at the end and cruissed to a 42-19 victory
Next up for Texas A&M were the always difficult Wyoming Cowboys. Wyoming had struggled to find good form all season but finally hit stride come playoff time. As expected, this match was intense right from kickoff. Early on the Aggies failed to capitalize on scoring opportunities when flyhalf Greg Kwedar missed his first penalty kick of the day and later when center Charles Davidson just barely pulled a drop goal to the right. The Aggie kept their composure and were only down by two at the break.
The second half was just as intense as the first, with the Aggies battling to regain the lead. However, late in the half flanker Matt Welsh was sent to the bin for a retaliatory punch. The Aggies fought incredibly hard, even a man down, but in the end Wyoming came out on top to the tune of a 22-12 victory. This was a crushing loss for the Aggies, as they were denied a bid to the Sweet 16, but it was not enough to diminish the palpable spirit of family the team had developed.
The next day Texas A&M met #4 Colorado State. The team came together following their heartbreaking loss and took it to the Rams. The Aggies met little resistance against highly touted Colorado State and cruised to a 19-0 win. This win sealed 3rd place and provided a great end to a career for Senior Captain Zach Rutledge, who scored two tries on the day.
In the end the team was proud of their performance, but is eager to go back and compete for the championship and seal a trip to the Sweet 16. The Aggie would like thank Captain Zach Rutledge for his character, attitude, and leadership that have gelled this team into the family it has become.
-Logan Free