Long Day Of Rugby But Gael Leave Arizona Winners

But overall a tactically aware team that was comfortable playing defense and taking opportunities won the game.
Leading the way was scrumhalf Will Lhommedieu, who kept the tempo going and emerged as a key spark for the team. Hooker Nate Deegan was big this weekend and, said O’Brien, “he’s one of those players who gets the little things right.”

Lock Matt Abbes, who has had to come back from injury, is healthy and ready to make an impact.
He has a good rugby IQ, wins ball, and is a strong defender. He helped lead the defensive effort.

But that wasn’t all for Saint Mary’s. Their 2nd side, after starting a little bit in the early going, exploded for a win of 88-15. They were adventurous and interesting in their play.

“It was a long day but GCU were super hosts,” said O’Brien.

Meanwhile, a younger team stayed home to play the Olympic Club men’s team. O-Club won that one, overpowering a younger side, controlling the lineouts, and dominating possession.

O’Brian paid as much attention to that game as the others. 

“We got overpowered and that’s an element of play we are struggling with.”
Next up for Saint Mary’s is an Arizona team that in their preseason in the fall tested Lindenwood and will bring a very polished outfit to Moraga.