High Country at Atlanta Bucks - February 20th, 2010

Final
High Country:  26
Atlanta Bucks:  3
Last Saturday, High Country RFC played at Atlanta Bucks RFC at Coan Middle School. The day was marked by the best weather so far this season. The game was won 26-3, with most of the scoring coming in the second half. The disjointed scoring margin between the two halves most likely had to do with High Country going with a completely different line-up then they had previously. Specifically, there were 13 new starters, allowing the team to gain valuable experience and show the depth that they have 1-15. In particular, man of the match T.J played eight-man and really showed the captains and coaching staff that he deserves more playing time as the season progresses.  In his first time in the 8-position, he took over all play calling responsibilities and did an excellent job. Besides calling plays, he also executed a number of offensive runs, took the jumps in the line-out, and had a bunch of line breaks off of the scrum. Scoring was achieved by Tumi and Brian Kane whom each had tries (multiple tries from Kane) with Brian also supplying the offensive kicking game. For a second week in a row, Mark P. played excellent at fullback, fielding the kicks and providing relief with his foot when necessary. He also was able to break runs while eluding Bucks tacklers. Defensively, High Country was solid while they withstood a Bucks attack that had the team in their own zone for most of the first half. Even with all the new guys, the defensive philosophy stood and tackling for the most part was good. Fitness level showed as the team stayed active and “hands on the hips” was held to a minimum. The most peculiar incident of the match, however, was an unidentified biter on the field that left some Bucks forearms with deep penetrating teeth marks. I cannot say if this ended on the pitch or continued into the after match. The after match was held at Woof’s Sports Bar on Piedmont and kegs were drunk, many rugby songs sung. The party continued on to High Country home the Brewhouse.
By: Kevin Paavola