There’s no doubt that Collum Magee is a big part of the Army rugby success this season, as the flanker and co-captain continues to make big tackles and test defenses.

But Saturday was a special time for him, as he scored two tries, including the game-winner over Kutztown with time running out.

“Te guys did a great job to get us into their 22. Then we had a penalty, and Jamie GEracci got us closer to the line. Ben Foley took it up, and then John Banarhall gave me a perfect ball and I went over,” described Magee. “We just played typical West Point rugby. We played hard for 80 minutes. When we were behind we were never down.”

Along with Magee, freshman Jake Lachina also scored two tries. The 20-year-old may be in his first year, but since he’s a little older than many freshmen, brings a maturity to his rugby, said Magee. “He’s got experience, and he’s very quick,” added the captain.

Army now has two games left before the ACRC Bowls, with Air Force coming to West Point on Friday, and Wheeling Jesuit hosting the Black Knights a week later. They can sew up the Rugby East with a win at WJU.

Magee said he would like to see the same spirit that sparked a win over Kutztown in the next two games.

“One of the things we had trouble with was penalties,” said the flanker. “But I didn’t want to tell the guys to back off, because the penalties came from us being aggressive and physical. It was part of the work ethic everyone was showing in the rucks, and what led us to win the game. I can’t say enough about how hard everyone worked.”