Virginia Tech takes on Clemson Saturday in a game that will likely crown the winner of the Atlantic Coast Rugby League (ACRL).

Clemson is 5-0 in the ACRL and is giving up less than eight points a game. The Tigers have been able to win games even when they double up on a weekend, fielding a largely freshman team. But Virginia Tech is 3-0 and could still win this conference if the Hokies beat Clemson and then finish off with a win over Maryland.  

(The big issue for Va Tech is their fixture with NC State, which was rained out and not made up - unofficial word is that this will be a forfeit against the Hokies, but that is not confirmed.)

So Clemson, ranked #9, is favored, but Virginia Tech has a shot. 

“We are hoping to keep it simple,” said Virginia Tech Head Coach Paul Caron. “We know we have the athletes to beat Clemson, but we have to keep our composure and execute our system.”  

Lock Bobby McDonnell has been a powerful leading force both as a leader and with the ball in hand. Outside center Conor Fay leads the attack out wide.

They will be central to Virginia Tech’s fortunes. But Clemson is deep and playing well together.

“Clemson has been doing a great job this season of putting teams away,” said Caron. “Their discipline on both sides of the ball is what makes them dangerous. We know what to expect and are looking forward to the challenge.”