NOOGA RUGBY

It was all set up to be an exciting weekend of rugby in Chattanooga: High school rugby practice, Nooga Black game, Nooga Red game and even a college game! But as many of you know, the weather did not cooperate! The brave high school kids still practiced in the snowy weather and luckily the Huntsville team was able to travel and the black side game was still played. However, due to driving concerns the Knoxville match was postponed and we will let you know ASAP when it is rescheduled.

Now for the Nooga Black details! The snow had stopped falling but it was still a cold day at Montague for the two teams who were both playing their Midsouth Division III season opener. The first half was very evenly matched. Nooga Black was committed in defense and were stringing phases together on offense but once down in Huntsville’s 22, turnovers or penalties sent the ball the other way. The same could be said of Huntsville as Nooga Black bent but did not break, forcing turnovers of their own. Forwards Jeff Zellner and Clayton Parr were making their presence felt, both highly mobile and getting around the field well. Center Hoyt Watson and winger Jeff McFarlane also made defensive contributions in the backline. The first half would end scoreless, tied 0-0.

Nooga Black carried some momentum in to the second half and attacked with confidence, culminating in a try by Daniel Tardy who made several defenders miss to score underneath the posts! The conversion was successful by fullback Lee Maclellan. Then Huntsville began to respond and scored 2 quick tries to take the lead, finding gaps in the defense. Huntsville maintained the pressure and scored another two tries before the second half was over and the final score was 24-7.

For his high work rate and great defense, Jeff Zellner was chosen as the Southern Comfort Man of the Match. Congratulations, Jeff!

Thanks for your support and please join us for Nooga Black’s next home friendly on 2/16 vs. Covenant College.