Despite Strong Effort, Seminoles Fall Short Again

Despite Strong Effort, Seminoles Fall Short Again

UF defeats FSU 18-16

January 23, 2010

There was a fiery build-up to Friday’s series of matches between Florida State University and the University of Florida, and the wait was well worth it.  A large and boisterous pro-Gator crowd made for a hostile environment, perfect for this classic rivalry to be renewed.  The teams played three matches culminating with FSU's Firxt XV taking on UF's nationally ranked A-side. 

FSU gave the #18 Gators all they could handle, surprising a very confident Florida squad with tireless defense and excellent work in set-pieces.  Early on, UF was able to capitalize on a series of handling errors by the 'Noles near their own goal line to take the lead.  Down 10-0 in the first half, FSU winger Chris Gonzales drew the 'Noles close, touching down after a clever kick from fly half Dylan Hamilton.  Late in the second half and deep in Gator territory, a superb lineout move led to a try by prop Joe Walthall that brought the 'Noles to within two points.  For the third game in a row, however, the 'Noles fell just short of a win, dropping this one by an 18-16 final.  Props Walthall and Nick David were named co-men of the match with their work in the scrums being particularly noteworthy. 

Although the 'Noles have not won a Division 1 fixture since moving up this season, they have been increasingly competitive, dropping their last two against nationally ranked opponents by a total of  just 3 points. 

FSU (6-4-2) drops to 3-1 in the 2009-2010 Florida Collegiate League (including D1 and D2 teams) but retains the inside track for a rematch with UF at the Florida Championship weekend on March 6th.

FSU's Emerging and Development XV also came up short last night against the Gators despite a solid effort by many new players still learning the game.  Freshman scrum-half John Nguyen enjoyed an outstanding evening providing consistent service during appearances in both games.  In the Emerging XV fixture, recent transfer Garrett Brady commanded the backline effectively and will be looked upon for leadership in the future. 

The Seminoles will look to end their three game winless streak this upcoming Saturday, January 30, when the University of North Florida travels to Tallahassee in Florida Rugby Union Matrix play.  In the two teams’ last meeting back in February 2009, FSU defeated UNF 28-7.  That win ended an extended FSU losing streak against the Deadbirds.  Kick-off times and reserve grade match details are still being finalized.