The Jesuit-New Orleans Blue Jays have secured a place in the Deep South HS league semifinals thanks in part to this past Saturday's 31-14 win over Shreveport.

Shreveport is a new HS team in the Deep South and despite being 2-5 has been competitive in the program's first outing, with an average points difference of less than 4. The Sharks started strong against Jesuit and punished some poor handling. But the Blue Jay cover defense recovered enough to stop the charge, turn the vall over, and counter. A big push from several teammates helped senior Nick Fresneda push his way over the goal for a score. Senior Scott Derbes’ kick was good and the Jays led 7-0.

Senior Josh West and junior Jack Gab teamed up for the next Blue Jay score. West blocked a Shreveport punt attempt, allowing Gab to capitalize. Gab broke a tackle, eluded another Shark defender, and raced 60 yards for a score. The conversion was no good and the score stood, 12-0.

Shreveport scored on an interception, but the Blue Jays punished a turnover right after - Nick Fresneda picking up the loose ball and racing untouched for a converted tri and a 19-7 halftime lead.

Jesuit junior Ian Fogarty opened the second half by receiving a pass deep in Shark territory, and fighting through several Shark defenders to score. Shreveport answered that score with one of their own, bringing the score to 24-14, with Jesuit still in the lead.

Senior William Waguespack and the Blue Jays put the match away when Waguespack fought his way through several defenders deep in Shark territory for a clinching try. Derbes’ made conversion brought the final score to 31-14, Jesuit.

The Blue Jay rugby team closes out regular season Saturday, April 16 at Marconi Field against the NOLA Barbarians. A win or a tie will keep Jesuit in 2nd, but a loss could drop them to third and, a very big loss could see the Barbarians bypass them also.