Gold Coast Latest - USD Wins

The University of San Diego defeated Azusa Pacific 28-7 Saturday in the only game in the Gold Coast.

USD is now 1-1, and Azusa Pacific 0-2. Players in wet, muddy conditions, both teams had trouble holding onto the ball at times, and footing was unpredictable.

Still, San Diego did well to control field position and winning at set piece. USD pressured early and after a long period slogging through the wet field, the Toreros scored when Cameron Guirguis picked up from the base of the ruck and went over. Adam Swete's conversion made it 7-0. Swete then broke through and fed Cameron Guirguis who did the rest. Swete converted again and it was 14-0 at halftime.

San Diego dominated the lineouts, with Eric Straka winning all their own throws and stealing just about every Azusa Pacific throw. 

That would tell nicely in the second half also as San Diego pressed their advantage. Jackson Ingram pinned AP back with his kicking game, and then the forwards did the rest. Smart work in the breakdown allowed Ingram to zip around the corner, but he stepped on the touchline to nullify the try. But at the lineout, Straka once again stole the ball, and this time just took off on his own and scored. Straka then converted his own try and it was 21-0. Azusa Pacific scored on a quick tap, and then a snappy drive from the USD pack forced a penalty. Captain and scrumhalf Anthony Pallone tapped quickly and was over- however the play was called back as the ref gave AP a yellow card. USD remained on the front foot and a lineout-and-maul set up flyhalf Ingram to race in for the fourth try. Straka converted and that made it 28-7.

That was the only game of conference play this week USD moved up to 3rd with a 1-1 record, but weather has meant a couple of games have not been played. Grand Canyon is in a superb position, having already beaten defending champs Cal State Long Beach, and the 'Lopes are now 3-0.