In their first official match of the 2016 High School Rugby season the Mustangs visited St. Louis Priory High School in a MYRugby friendly match. This early season match, first of the year for Priory, turned into a defensive contest as both teams struggled to break through on offense. The Mustangs dominated in the set scrums while Priory won more than their share of rucks.
Priory opened the scoring with a penalty kick about mid-way through the first half. Continued back and forth attacking resulted in no additional scoring by either team. The first half ended 0-3 Priory.
The beginning of the 2nd half saw the Mustangs begin to apply pressure with aggressive defense and sure tackling. Denying Priory the gain line for several phases, the Mustangs secured possession inside of Priory's 22m and patiently pounded on their opponent's defense. Several minutes inside Priory's 22 saw a couple of turnovers and an apparent try by Nick Pickens, which was subsequently called back.
The Mustangs retained possession and continued patient attacks, moving the ball across the pitch first with the forwards and then with the backs. This strategy ultimately resulted in an overlap situation that winger Ty Dupre was able to exploit. Ty's try in the first 10 minutes of the 2nd half was his first career try! McGuire Brown slotted the conversion from a difficult angle. Mustangs 7- Priory 3.
As the 2nd half continued, both teams again exchanged attacks between the 22's, with the Mustangs continuing to be very aggressive on defense. Priory conceded an offsides penalty about 30m out which gave McGuire a chance to pad the Mustangs lead. McGuire continued to prove his ability to place kick by slotting the 3. Mustangs 10-Priory 3.
Mustangs coaches began strategically subbing out tired players as the match wore on. Many of the subs were able to get some time in and gain valuable experience which will help the team as the season winds on. Final Score Mustangs 10 - Priory 3. This is the first time in 5 years that the Mustangs have beaten Priory! Great job boys!