The University of Oklahoma (ranked #30 this fall by Goff Rugby Report) defeated 39 University of Arkansas 41-25 Saturday in a non-conference clash in Fayetteville, Ark.

The Sooners had a lot of work to do to get by the scrappy Razorbacks, and in fact Arkansas controlled much of the first half, leading 19-10 at the break.

The Razorbacks did well to steal possession at the breakdown, and their defense was solid enough to force Oklahoma to kick - perhaps too much. With plenty of possession, Arkansas was able to punish Oklahoma defensive errors.

But in the second half, OU adjusted by staying on their feet in the breakdowns and getting support to the rucks faster. That allowed them to work the phases, and the tries came. Robin Persignol was everywhere and eventually wore the Hogs down, powering through the defense and scoring several tries. The Ronan brothers - Donovan and Logan - were tenacious and their hard work resulted in a try for Donovan Ronan. Anthony Barthas delivered good ball at scrumhalf and David Wallace called a good game at 10, as well as kicking well. 

John Lucas tackled strong all day and Manny Soto was the spark that put the game away with two huge tries in the second half. But the play of the game was probably Will Neff’s try from 90 meters out.

It was an improved performance from the Sooners and the comeback showed they are able to put aside difficult periods of play.

"This is a team in progress,” said OU Coach Doug Neubauer assessed. “We absorbed a tenacious ball hawking club, made some adjustments at half and stayed in pattern. It was a gut check performance and our team raised their level to wear down and outpace a good Arkansas team.  The squad improved significantly since Tennessee in both set pieces and  delivering aggression both offensively and defensively in the loose, but we still have work to do."