Principia Defeats Washington in Battle of Top Gateway Teams

Washington University Head Coach Bryce Krug echoed those sentiments.

"I’m super-proud of my guys," he said. " It was 10-0 after 30 minutes of play, and could have been closer. Both sides started to feel the physical play [later in the game]  and the difference in experience that their subs brought was a big difference maker.  They were able to create space and deliver some long runs on the outside, which created scoring opportunities that put the decision out of reach. Full marks to Principia for the win, but we feel like this is a performance we can learn from and continue to get better as we go into the conference championships. "

Principia's tenacious defense early on, their overall pace, and their depth were all difference-makers. Freshman loose forward Francisco Alessio was outstanding for Principia, while captain and flyhalf Damir Conci led the attack. Both defended well and both scored three tries on the day. 

Washington's was without their regular fullback, Josh Sidelsky, so their regular scrumhalf, Liam Mulkerin, stepped in at fullback with freshman Kai Cho dinning the #9 jersey. Both played well in the new positions, with Cho showing poise and skill. Wing Sebastian Salazar battled well despite being outsized. Up front Marchok and hooker Victor White put in a ton of work.

"We were not our best," said Kellerman, "not in terms of performance nor in terms of having our full team out there. However, it was good for us to have to battle a bit more than we have in recent conference games. It certainly helped us find little things we could do better."